Heavy Rains Flood

The R30 road between Bothaville and Orkney is “under water” due to “heavy down pours”, warned Sipho Towa, Chairperson of the Free State Road Incident Management Systems (RIMS). With waterlogged conditions posing significant risks, road users are urged to exercise extreme caution, “slow down”, “increase following distance”, and “avoid flooded areas”. The warning comes amid widespread flooding concerns in the region, exacerbated by high water levels at the Vaal Dam and ongoing heavy rainfall linked to the La Niña weather system.

R30 Flooding Creates Hazardous Conditions

Sipho Towa announced today, “Heavy Rains Resulting in Waterlogged Roads. The R30 between Bothaville & Orkney is under water following the recent heavy down pours.” The flooding has rendered sections of this key route impassable, with standing water obscuring the road surface and creating dangerous driving conditions. The Free State RIMS is coordinating with local authorities to monitor the situation and assist stranded motorists.

The R30, a vital link connecting Bothaville in the Free State to Orkney in North West, is frequently used by commuters, farmers, and commercial vehicles. The current flooding, driven by intense rainfall across the Upper Vaal Catchment, has heightened safety concerns, particularly as the region braces for more rain over the weekend, according to the South African Weather Service.

Safety Tips for Drivers

Towa outlined critical safety measures for drivers navigating the affected area:

• “Slow down”: Reduce speed to maintain control on slippery, waterlogged roads.
• “Increase following distance”: Allow extra space to account for longer stopping distances.
• “Use low gear”: Engage a lower gear to enhance vehicle control in heavy rain.
• “Avoid flooded areas”: Steer clear of standing water, as its depth can be deceptive and damage vehicles.
• “Watch for hazards”: Stay alert for “potholes, debris, and animals” hidden by water.
• “Use headlights”: Turn on headlights to improve visibility in low-light, rainy conditions.
• “Be prepared for hydroplaning”: If hydroplaning occurs, ease off the accelerator and steer straight until traction is regained.
  Towa urged drivers to “stay safe, and consider alternative routes” where possible, such as the N12 or R76, though these routes may also be affected by heavy rainfall.
  Regional Flooding Context
  The flooding on the R30 coincides with broader water management challenges in the region. The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) reported on 24 April 2025 that the Vaal Dam, at “113.54%” capacity, has opened “six sluice gates” to manage inflows of “2056.50 cubic metres per second (m3/s)”. Similarly, Bloemhof Dam, at “107.30%”, has increased outflows to “2000 m3/s”, contributing to overtopping riverbanks and flooding low-lying areas along the Vaal River. These releases have likely exacerbated waterlogging on roads like the R30, particularly in areas downstream of the dams.
  The La Niña weather system, responsible for above-average rainfall across Gauteng, Free State, and North West, has saturated catchments, increasing the risk of flash floods. The South African Weather Service issued a Level 4 warning for disruptive rain in the Free State on 24 April 2025, urging residents to avoid travel and secure property

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