Man, daughter swept off bridge
2009-01-29 11:01
Johannesburg - A father and his daughter were swept off a bridge by strong water currents near the Jukskei River in north-west Johannesburg on Thursday morning, said emergency services.
"According to witnesses, the two were seen standing on the roof of their submerged vehicle, frantically calling for help," said Johannesburg Emergency Management Services spokesperson Percy Morokane.
The pair "escaped certain death" after their Land Rover was swept off a low-lying bridge crossing the Jukskei River in Nooitgedacht.
The father was apparently taking his eight-year-old daughter to school when the accident happened just before 08:00.
The JEMS water rescue team managed to get the two to safety. They suffered no injuries, but the little girl was treated for shock and taken home by relatives.
Flood warning
Morokane warned home-owners, pedestrians and motorists in the greater Johannesburg area about possible flooding.
"Motorists are specifically warned to resist the temptation of crossing low-lying bridges."
Earlier Johannesburg metro police said they were on high alert after heavy rains were predicted for the city.
"We have deployed a lot of officers on the freeways and main roads," said spokesperson Chief Superintendent Wayne Minnaar.
Flood warnings have been issued, particularly for the Jukskei and Klipspruit river systems, Diepsloot/Jabulani and Naturena/Meredale.
On Wednesday, Morokane said if motorists encountered flooded roads or carriageways they should turn around and use alternative routes.
"If your car stalls, abandon it and move to higher ground."
- SAPA