All about the weather

What crazy weather we have had! We enjoyed the coldest day of the year and the biggest dump of snow for years and all this while we are well into Spring. Changing Climate Conditions Continue to Cause Concern. 

Typically, South Africa (excluding the Cape) experiences its rainy seasons in the last quarter of each year. Added to this, we are advised by the International Research Institute for Climate Change and Society at Columbia University that the probability of a La Niña occurrence between now and April 2025 has passed the 50% threshold. La Niña brings above-average rainfall to South Africa, and this will come as a welcome relief to the farmers who have had to endure the El Niño drought for the last two years. 

When expecting heavy rains, it is critical that everyone plays their part to ensure that rain damage and flooding are managed as best as possible.

Building Risks

• Clean the drains. This is so important. Drainage systems and gutters must be cleaned out regularly to prevent water accumulation and ultimately damage to roofs.
• Check that weep holes are free of any blockages. 
• Property owners should take extra care and inspect roof tops for cracks and other maintenance related issues. This more so for flat roofs.
• Lack of maintenance can lead to unnecessary complications at claim stage.

Motor
Heavy rainfall decreases visibility tremendously, and clients should take care to check the following vehicle maintenance related issues:

• Windscreen wipers are replaced if cracked, old or worn.
• Vehicle’s light including fog lights are in working order and replaced as needed.
• Tread on tyres is checked frequently, as aquaplaning can occur when braking even at moderate speeds and through shallow and seemingly harmless looking puddles.
• Never activate cruise control during the rain. If the vehicle hits a puddle and loses traction then the engine roars to life as it assumes that the vehicle has slowed down and is no longer cruising.
• Remember that rain alters road surfaces causing those massive potholes.
• Continuous maintenance especially before and during the rainy season improves your vehicle performance when you need it the most.

Below are pictures taken during the recent floods in Europe
 

Source: ONE Insurance