WATCH| OR Tambo Flooded After Storm Chaos Hits Domestic Terminal

OR Tambo International Airport’s Domestic Terminal B experienced partial flooding on Friday evening after intense thunderstorms swept through the area, disrupting parts of the airport precinct.

Footage shared by travellers showed water pooling across sections of the departures check-in hall, with large volumes flowing across the terminal floor as the storm intensified.

OR Tambo Operations Continue Despite Water Damage Concerns

Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) spokesperson Ofentse Dijou confirmed that assessments were under way to determine the extent of the damage. He said that, despite the flooding, airport operations were not disrupted.

“No flights have been delayed and operations are continuing as normal,” Dijou said.

The main R21 offramp leading into the airport precinct was also submerged during the storm. Dijou later confirmed that water levels had dropped and that access routes to the airport had since returned to normal.

Infrastructure Damage Possible as Officials Urge Caution

While the full impact is still being evaluated, there are concerns that check-in equipment, electrical systems and other ground aviation infrastructure may have been affected, potentially resulting in costly repairs.

Sources at the airport indicated that the terminal’s roofing structure had undergone repairs in 2025 but may not have held up against the intensity of Friday evening’s storm. ACSA has not yet confirmed these claims.

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Despite improving conditions, DA ward councillor Simon Lapping urged travellers to remain cautious.

“The area has experienced a severe thunderstorm and safety comes first,” he said, advising motorists to drive carefully and allow extra travel time if departing Friday evening.

Dijou said ACSA is expected to release a comprehensive statement on the flooding later in the evening.