Gauteng Braces for Cold Front: Joburg Emergency Services Issue Winter Alert

As Gauteng braces for a cold front, Johannesburg Emergency Services (EMS) have ramped up their readiness to respond swiftly to any incidents that may arise. A strong cold front is expected to sweep across the province starting Friday, prompting city officials and weather experts to issue safety alerts.

ALSO READ: Today’s Weather Forecast – 2 May 2025

Cold Front Expected Across Gauteng

According to Gauteng Weather, Johannesburg will face a significant chill with minimum temperatures around 10°C and highs reaching only 18°C. Pretoria won’t be spared either, with forecasts indicating a low of 11°C and a high of 20°C.

Meteorologists confirm that this marks the season’s first major cold snap, a clear sign that winter is fast approaching. The public is urged to prepare accordingly, especially as the icy weather may persist through the weekend.

Joburg Emergency Services (EMS) Raise Alert Levels: Incoming Cold Front

Spokesperson Robert Mulaudzi from Johannesburg Emergency Services confirmed the department is on high alert. Teams across all seven city regions remain ready to respond to any emergency caused by the extreme cold.

“We’ve noted the weather warnings and are actively monitoring conditions. Our teams stand ready to handle incidents related to heating devices, structural fires, and potential carbon monoxide poisoning,” said Mulaudzi.

Heating Device Safety: A Growing Concern

Many residents, especially those in informal settlements—turn to braziers (imbaula) and paraffin heaters to stay warm. However, Mulaudzi strongly advised caution when using these heating methods.

“Never leave a heater or stove unattended,” he stressed. “We’ve seen tragic incidents where paraffin stoves tip over or where families inhale toxic fumes from braziers used in poorly ventilated shacks.”

He urged residents to remove braziers before bedtime and keep all flammable materials away from heat sources. Parents should also keep a close eye on young children, who may unknowingly get too close to hot appliances.

Emergency Services (EMS) Monitor All City Regions

Johannesburg Emergency Services will continue to patrol high-risk areas, especially where informal housing is dense. They aim to prevent fire outbreaks and health emergencies caused by unsafe heating.

City officials also ask residents to report suspicious fires or unsafe heating practices immediately, so intervention teams can respond before disasters unfold.

How to Stay Safe During the Cold Front

To minimize the risk during this cold front, residents should:

• Use heaters responsibly: Turn them off when not in use.
• Ventilate rooms: If using a brazier, allow fresh air to circulate.
• Dress in warm layers: Cover extremities like hands, feet, and the head.
• Check on vulnerable individuals: Elderly family members and children are especially at risk.
• Keep emergency numbers handy: Contact EMS immediately in case of fire or respiratory distress.

While the cold front may last a few days, city officials expect more frequent cold spells as May transitions into winter. Emergency services plan to maintain their alert status and are coordinating with community leaders to raise awareness about fire safety and health risks.

The public can follow Gauteng Weather and Joburg EMS social media pages for live updates and practical tips on staying safe and warm.