Johannesburg Emergency Services has issued a Level 1 alert for severe thunderstorms and heavy rain, urging drivers to be cautious. This warning comes as the city hosts the G20 leaders summit, with additional road restrictions in place around key venues. Motorists near the Nasrec expo centre are advised to seek alternate routes due to a lockdown.
As the first-ever G20 Leaders Summit unfolds in South Africa on November 21, 2025, Johannesburg faces challenging weather conditions. The city's Emergency Services (EMS) has activated a Level 1 alert for severe thunderstorms and heavy rain expected that evening, prompting warnings for all motorists to drive carefully.
EMS spokesperson Robert Mulaudzi emphasized the need for vigilance, stating, “The motorists who are driving in and around the City of Johannesburg should exercise caution, safe following distance and avoid roads which might be flooded and also low lying bridges from our side. We remain on high alert monitoring all regions for any emergencies which may occur throughout the City of Johannesburg.”
The alert coincides with heightened security measures for the summit at the Nasrec expo centre south of Johannesburg. A hard lockdown is in effect there, leading authorities to recommend alternate routes for travelers in the area. Separately, Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) spokesperson Xolani Fihla announced that roads in Sandton and Nasrec will experience rolling closures starting the following day to accommodate G20 convoys.
The South African Weather Service noted varied skies over the nation's economic hub as delegates arrive, underscoring the summit's significance amid global discussions. EMS remains on standby to respond to any weather-related incidents across the city.