MEDIA STATEMENT
30 September 2026
For Immediate Release
What does El Niño mean for Joburg? A call to care for our green city
Hotter days and less rain are among the conditions El Niño can bring to Johannesburg. This natural weather pattern begins with unusually warm water in part of the Pacific Ocean and influences weather across many parts of the world. Its effects vary, and drought is not inevitable. For Joburg, it signals a reason to prepare thoughtfully and care for the trees, gardens and wildlife around us.
Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ) is inviting residents, schools, businesses and community organisations to turn that care into action. Protect a healthy tree, help a food garden thrive or report a leaking park tap. Together, these everyday choices can conserve water and sustain the green spaces we share.
Here is how you can make a difference:
While residents play their part, animal care remains a priority at the Johannesburg Zoo. Adequate water systems, including a number of boreholes, cater for the animals’ needs. During extreme heat, animals normally return to their night rooms or take cover beneath the Zoo’s rich tree canopy.
Water conservation will also guide the use of public features. Where necessary, JCPZ will switch off water features operated with potable water, while maintaining systems that provide drinking water for birds and small mammals.
A little extra care will help everyone enjoy these spaces safely:
ENDS
Issued by Thanduxolo Mendrew | Managing Director | Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo
Media inquiries: Jenny Moodley | Spokesperson | Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo
Mobile: 082 803 0748 | Email: jmoodley@jhbcityparks.com
30 September 2026
For Immediate Release
What does El Niño mean for Joburg? A call to care for our green city
Hotter days and less rain are among the conditions El Niño can bring to Johannesburg. This natural weather pattern begins with unusually warm water in part of the Pacific Ocean and influences weather across many parts of the world. Its effects vary, and drought is not inevitable. For Joburg, it signals a reason to prepare thoughtfully and care for the trees, gardens and wildlife around us.
Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ) is inviting residents, schools, businesses and community organisations to turn that care into action. Protect a healthy tree, help a food garden thrive or report a leaking park tap. Together, these everyday choices can conserve water and sustain the green spaces we share.
Here is how you can make a difference:
- Conserve water at home. Repair leaks, sweep paths instead of hosing them, check soil moisture before watering, and direct water to roots. Use suitable mulch, kept away from tree trunks, and follow Johannesburg Water’s current restrictions.
- Grow food with care. Start a manageable food garden, choose seasonal crops and group plants with similar watering needs. Safely collected roof rainwater can support suitable non-drinking uses.
- Plant a living legacy. Make a birthday, anniversary, new home, or cherished memory an opportunity to plant a fruit tree.
- Choose a suitable species and site, plant when conditions favour establishment and commit to aftercare. Young trees need water while being established; protect healthy mature trees too.
- Support birds and bees. Put out shallow dishes of clean water, with stones above the waterline for safe landing. Replace water daily and clean containers regularly. Suitable flowering plants provide food for pollinators.
- Care together. Help a neighbour or support a school or community garden with the owner’s permission. Explore partnerships through the relevant JCPZ regional team and coordinate any work in public parks or on public trees.
- Report leaks in public spaces.
- Report leaking taps and pipes in parks, cemeteries and nature reserves to Joburg Connect on 011 375 5555 or joburgconnect@joburg.org.za.
- Give the facility name and exact location, add a photograph where safe, and retain the reference number. JCPZ Customer Care can assist with follow-up on 011 712 6600.
While residents play their part, animal care remains a priority at the Johannesburg Zoo. Adequate water systems, including a number of boreholes, cater for the animals’ needs. During extreme heat, animals normally return to their night rooms or take cover beneath the Zoo’s rich tree canopy.
Water conservation will also guide the use of public features. Where necessary, JCPZ will switch off water features operated with potable water, while maintaining systems that provide drinking water for birds and small mammals.
A little extra care will help everyone enjoy these spaces safely:
- Prevent bush fires. Never set fire to dense, dry bush, grass or garden waste. Do not discard lit cigarettes or matches. Braai only where expressly permitted, in designated areas; never leave a fire unattended and ensure embers are fully extinguished. Follow site restrictions, particularly on hot, windy days. Report spreading fires to Emergency Services on 011 375 5911; keep clear of flames and smoke.
- Plan for heat. Choose cooler times for walks and outdoor activities, carry drinking water and take breaks. Keep a close watch on children and older companions, and do not leave people or pets in parked vehicles.
- Respect storm warnings. Never shelter under trees during lightning; seek a fully enclosed building or enclosed vehicle with windows closed. Stay clear of swollen streams, damaged trees and fallen branches, and follow official warnings and site closures.
ENDS
Issued by Thanduxolo Mendrew | Managing Director | Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo
Media inquiries: Jenny Moodley | Spokesperson | Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo
Mobile: 082 803 0748 | Email: jmoodley@jhbcityparks.com
