Centurion Traffic Chaos as Hennops River Floods
Centurion motorists faced severe traffic disruptions on Wednesday morning, 18 February 2025, after the Hennops River overflowed and flooded the intersection of Rabie Street and End Avenue. This comes after days of heavy rainfall in Gauteng, which has once again exposed the city’s vulnerability to flooding.
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Traffic Gridlock as Floodwaters Take Over
As floodwaters engulfed one of Centurion’s busiest intersections, traffic came to a standstill, forcing commuters to take alternative routes. The unexpected flooding led to significant congestion, delaying travel times and causing frustration among motorists.
According to reports, drivers were seen attempting to navigate the flooded intersection, while others were forced to turn around. Emergency services have strongly warned both motorists and pedestrians against crossing flooded roads and rivers, as it poses a serious risk to life and property.
Decade-Long Flooding Problem in Centurion
The Hennops River has a history of flooding, particularly during Gauteng’s rainy season. Over the past decade, residents and businesses in Centurion have repeatedly suffered the consequences of inadequate drainage infrastructure and rising water levels.
Despite previous flood incidents, solutions to improve stormwater drainage and flood prevention remain limited. The current flooding has once again sparked concerns over whether authorities are adequately prepared to deal with such emergencies.
Emergency Services Issue Safety Warnings
In response to the flooding, emergency services have urged motorists and pedestrians to exercise extreme caution. Authorities have emphasized the dangers of attempting to cross flooded roads, as the force of moving water can easily sweep away vehicles and individuals.
Safety Tips for Motorists During Floods:
✔️ Avoid flooded roads and low-lying bridges
✔️ Do not attempt to drive through moving water – even shallow water can be dangerous
✔️ Follow traffic updates to find safer alternative routes
✔️ Ensure vehicle headlights are on in poor visibility conditions
✔️ Contact emergency services if stranded or in danger
Impact on Businesses and Commuters
The flooding not only disrupted traffic but also affected businesses and residents in Centurion. Many workers and students were delayed or unable to reach their destinations, while businesses along the flooded route suffered losses due to accessibility issues.
With Centurion being a key business and residential hub, continuous flooding could have long-term economic consequences, impacting property values and discouraging investment in the area.
Calls for Improved Flood Management Solutions
The repeated flooding incidents in Centurion have reignited calls for improved flood management. Residents and urban planners have urged the Tshwane municipality to prioritize better drainage infrastructure, regular river maintenance, and more effective flood prevention strategies.
Possible Solutions Include:
✅ Improving stormwater drainage systems to prevent road flooding
✅ Regular clearing of riverbanks and debris that obstruct water flow
✅ Constructing flood barriers to protect vulnerable areas
✅ Better urban planning to reduce the impact of floods on residential and business areas
The Hennops River flooding at Rabie Street and End Avenue is yet another reminder of Centurion’s ongoing flood challenges. As emergency services work to manage the situation, motorists are urged to stay alert and avoid flooded areas.
With climate change bringing more extreme weather patterns, long-term solutions must be implemented to ensure that Centurion does not continue to suffer from preventable flood-related chaos.
Stay updated on the latest weather alerts and road conditions.
