JOBURG FLOODS: Heroes Rally to the Rescue as Heavy Rains Devastate Parts of Johannesburg, South Africa

Following the hugest hail storm in decades on Monday, Johannesburg was again hit today by inclement weather – this time devastating flooding that left cars stranded, bricks and tiles torn off constructions, tar roads destroyed, and some local residents trapped in their homes. But fortunately there were no fatalities reported, thanks in large part to the incredible and brave efforts of South Africans from various walks of life who rallied together, risking life and limb, to rescue victims of the flooding.

This morning parts of Soweto, Eldorado Park and Florida Lake (watch video below) were flooded with many road having to be closed. And then, as predicted by the South African Weather Service (SAWS), further thunder showers fell in Gauteng this afternoon.

BCI Security detailed the various rescues that had to take place and thanked all those amazing South Africans – from the police to volunteer organisation NSRI and of course NGO, Gift of the Givers – who came together to help those in desperate need.

BCI Security’s Management team (which usually deals with security issues) as well as their QRF K9 unit responded to information from their Control Room about “several areas that were experiencing heavy rains (which) resulted in serious flooding.”

BCI units were deployed to multiple areas to assist with various emergencies. One included an elderly man in Muldersdrift whose entire home was flooded, and needed immediate assistance.

“Mr & Mrs Loots and other residents battled the torrents of rain to assist him out of his flooded home together with his furry friends,” said BCI.

BCI Security members were deployed throughout the Westrand area together with SAPS (South African Police Service) Search and Rescue. “A contingent of helicopters were also deployed to assist recovering people from their flooded homes,” said BCI.

“The devastation caused by this flood required a tremendous team effort that has saved countless lives. A very big thank you to all who assisted today. It is a true example of how passionate people can work together.”

View more photos on BCI Security’s FB page here. 

WATCH Flooding at Florida Lake, Johannesburg

WATCH Widespread flooding in parts of Johannesburg

As BCI said, a BIG THANKS to:

SAPS K9 Search and Rescue
NSRI Sea Rescue Hartbeespoort
COJEMS Search and Rescue
Mogale City Fire
Gift of the Givers (Graham)
SRU rapid response
SAPS water wing
COJ Aquatic Unit
National Crime Assist (Beyers)
And All Security Companies involved.
Fedility Airwing
There may be a number of helpers we have not mentioned but thanks to each and everyone of you.

And thank you too to BCI Security! As they say “If you see something, say something!!!”

Contact BCI Security in Roodepoort on +27 11 794 1180 or visit their website:
http://www.bcisecurity.co.za/. View more photos on BCI’s FB page here.