Golden Walk Mall in Germiston, Ekurhuleni, has been temporarily closed after heavy rains lashed parts of Gauteng on Thursday evening, causing widespread flooding and traffic disruptions.
The torrential downpour left several businesses and roads waterlogged, prompting emergency and traffic personnel to be deployed across affected areas to monitor the situation. Fortunately, no injuries or fatalities have been reported so far.
Ekurhuleni emergency teams worked tirelessly to assess the extent of the flooding, while mall management took the precautionary measure of closing the premises to ensure public safety. Customers and workers were advised to avoid the area until conditions improve and officials deem it safe to reopen.
A statement from local authorities confirmed that road users in Germiston and surrounding areas should expect delays, as water accumulation on major routes continues to affect traffic flow. The downpour, which started in the late afternoon, intensified into the evening, overwhelming stormwater drains and causing localized flooding in low-lying areas.
Meanwhile, traffic chaos unfolded on the N3 Northbound in Bedfordview, also within the Ekurhuleni region, following a serious collision involving two trucks. The incident, which occurred after Van Beeren Road, resulted in temporary lane closures as emergency teams responded.
Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD) spokesperson, Katlego Mphahlele, confirmed that both truck drivers were trapped inside their vehicles at the time of the accident. Rescue teams, including a medical helicopter, were dispatched to the scene to provide urgent assistance.
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“In the Bedfordview area, there’s a serious accident after Van Beeren Road. Two trucks are involved and trapped inside. A helicopter and emergency personnel have been deployed,” Mphahlele said. “The freeway will be temporarily closed to allow the helicopter to land. Motorists are advised to approach the area with extreme caution or use the Van Beeren Road off-ramp as an alternative route. Stay safe and stay alive on the road.”
Authorities have warned motorists to drive carefully, as slippery conditions and reduced visibility continue to pose hazards across Gauteng. The EMPD urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel and to report any flooding or damaged infrastructure to local emergency numbers.
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) had earlier forecasted heavy rainfall for parts of Gauteng, including Ekurhuleni, warning of possible flooding, road disruptions, and power outages. The agency continues to monitor weather patterns and has urged residents to remain vigilant as wet conditions are expected to persist overnight.
Local businesses affected by the heavy rains, including Golden Walk Mall, have assured customers that cleanup operations will begin as soon as it is safe to do so. Mall representatives emphasized that safety remains their top priority and that operations will resume once conditions stabilize.
As Gauteng braces for continued rainfall, emergency services remain on high alert, ensuring that residents and commuters are kept safe amid challenging weather conditions.
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