​​Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo urges residents to exercise extra caution during periods of heavy rain and strong winds. As weather conditions intensify, trees become more vulnerable to damage, with falling branches posing a serious risk to people, vehicles, and property.

Residents are strongly advised not to park vehicles under tr​ees during or after rainfall, as wet soil and strong winds can cause branches—or in some cases entire trees—to collapse without warning. Older trees, with heavier top branches and weakened root systems, are particularly susceptible.

City Parks and Zoo’s street trees and parks teams are monitoring tree stability across Johannesburg and prioritising high-risk areas for maintenance and, where necessary, removals. However, public cooperation remains essential to prevent avoidable injuries and damage.

The entity is also urging families to inspect their loved ones’ gravesites. Continuous heavy rain can lead to flooding, severe subsidence, soil erosion, and the collapse of headstones in several cemeteries. Areas with more recent burials are especially vulnerable to sunken graves and shifting soil.

While families are responsible for the upkeep and reinstatement of graves and headstones, City Parks and Zoo acknowledges the emotional significance of maintaining these sacred spaces. The entity remains committed to assisting families and will only refill graves with their consent.