Johannesburg residents have been advised not to undertake cleaning ceremonies and baptisms in river streams

Because of the continuous heavy rainfall, Johannesburg residents have been advised not to undertake cleaning ceremonies and baptisms in river streams. Rain has been falling on the city for almost a week, causing high water levels and powerful river currents.

Johannesburg Emergency Management Services (EMS) spokesperson Robert Mulaudzi underlined the risks of holding religious services in flooded rivers. “Most of our river streams are full due to the disruptive rainfall that we have been receiving over the past five days,” he said. Residents are advised to avoid river waters where baptism and cleansing ceremonies are typically performed.

Numerous drownings during religious ceremonies have occurred in the Jukskei River in the past. A tragic incident happened in December 2022 when a sudden rise in the river’s water level caused 15 congregation members to drown during a baptism ceremony. Similarly, two ladies were killed in the Bramley region in January 2024 while participating in a cleaning ceremony in the same river.

Johannesburg EMS has taken the initiative to inform communities and religious leaders about the dangers of performing rituals in rivers, particularly during times of intense precipitation, in reaction to these instances. Water safety campaigns targeting pastors, spiritualists, and traditional healers have been among the initiatives, stressing the significance of selecting safer venues and times for these procedures.

EMS workers are on high alert, keeping an eye on all seven areas of the city for any possible emergencies as the heavy downpours continue. Mulaudzi urged locals to use the approved pedestrian crossings and refrain from crossing river streams while going about their regular business. Additionally, drivers are advised to remain alert because roads may be slick and visibility may be poor.

A severe weather warning has been issued for Gauteng by the South African Weather Service, suggesting that the heavy rains may continue. To avoid more fatalities, residents are urged to follow safety precautions and stay updated on weather conditions, especially if they live in low-lying and flood-prone areas.

The City of Johannesburg is still urging residents, particularly religious communities, to stay away from rivers and water streams during periods of intense precipitation in light of the recent instances. This measure is essential for everyone’s protection and to stop such tragic incidents from happening again.