Two female congregants drowned after being washed away during a religious ceremony in a swollen river in Bramley, Johannesburg, on Wednesday.
City of Joburg spokesperson Robert Mulaudzi said they were participating in a “baptism/cleansing ritual”.
Two other congregants were rescued.
He urged residents to steer clear of streams, as the steady rains being experienced in the city mean water levels are higher than usual.
“It's raining in most parts of the city. Residents residing in low-lying areas and along streams are urged to avoid crossing streams when conducting daily activities and to monitor young children to stay away from streams to prevent drowning incidents.
“Faith-based organisations who normally conduct cleansing/baptism rituals in rivers are urged to stay away to prevent incidents where people might be washed away.
“Most roads are also wet and slippery. Motorists are urged to exercise caution while driving and to extend a safe following distance, keep headlights on and avoid crossing flooded roads or bridges.”
Two women drown during religious ceremony in swollen river
Image: City of Joburg EMS
Two female congregants drowned after being washed away during a religious ceremony in a swollen river in Bramley, Johannesburg, on Wednesday.
City of Joburg spokesperson Robert Mulaudzi said they were participating in a “baptism/cleansing ritual”.
Two other congregants were rescued.
He urged residents to steer clear of streams, as the steady rains being experienced in the city mean water levels are higher than usual.
“It's raining in most parts of the city. Residents residing in low-lying areas and along streams are urged to avoid crossing streams when conducting daily activities and to monitor young children to stay away from streams to prevent drowning incidents.
“Faith-based organisations who normally conduct cleansing/baptism rituals in rivers are urged to stay away to prevent incidents where people might be washed away.
“Most roads are also wet and slippery. Motorists are urged to exercise caution while driving and to extend a safe following distance, keep headlights on and avoid crossing flooded roads or bridges.”
TimesLIVE
READ MORE
31 people killed in KZN December floods
Ladysmith floods death toll rises to 13
Four drown after boat overturns in Three Rivers, Vereeniging
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Most read
Latest Videos