Johannesburg – The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued an unprecedented “Red Level 10 Warning for Disruptive Rainfall” for Limpopo and Mpumalanga wher heavy rainfall has been persistent for several days.
SAWS warned of the risk of widespread flooding and a threat to human life.
The adverse weather has affected the Kruger National Park.
Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Minister Willie Aucamp has expressed deep concern over the severe weather conditions and flooding currently affecting sections of the Kruger National Park.
Persistent heavy rainfall across Limpopo and Mpumalanga has caused river levels to rise significantly, with overflows reported in the Crocodile, Sabie, Letaba, Sand, Luvuvhu, and Limpopo rivers.
Northern areas such as Pafuri have been particularly impacted, leading to road closures, bridge overflows, and restrictions at several gates, including Crocodile Bridge and Pafuri.
Access between key regions such as Skukuza, Lower Sabie, and Crocodile Bridge has also been limited.
“Extreme rainfall and flooding events are becoming more frequent and severe, placing pressure on infrastructure and visitor safety,” noted Minister Aucamp.
“Importantly, SANParks confirms that no penalties will be charged for cancellations or rescheduling due to the flooding, and guests will be assisted with refunds or alternative bookings.”
As a result of ongoing heavy rains and saturated infrastructure, the temporary suspension of day visitation to the Kruger National Park remains in place until further notice
On Thursday, 15 January 2026, President Cyril Ramaphosa visited flood-affected areas in Limpopo.
President Ramaphosa visited flood-devastated areas in Limpopo on Thursday, January 15, 2026, to assess damage and government response amid catastrophic heavy rains.
In Mbaula village near Giyani, he noted 36 houses washed away, leaving families homeless.
Drownings contributed to at least 5 fatalities in Limpopo (part of 19 across Limpopo and Mpumalanga since December).
President Ramaphosa expressed devastation and commended relief efforts.
Areas in Giyani were the worst affected, and the government has committed to an urgent response to support affected families.
Meanwhile, the SA Police Service Search and Rescue teams, together with the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and the Emergency Medical Services, were navigating through raging waters in Mbaula village outside Giyani in search of a five-year-old boy, Siyanda Baloyi.
Police Spokesperson Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba said the boy was reported missing on Thursday morning, 15 January 2026.
“It is alleged the child went missing around 06:00 am after his mother tried to escape from the house along with the child since it was filled with water,” said Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba.
“The duo was allegedly swept away by the floods.
“The mother was fortunately trapped by a tree and was rescued by the members of the SANDF, while the child could not be located.”
Acting Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, Major General Jan Scheepers, has called on communities affected by flooding to work with law enforcement to ensure their safety.
“We urge the public not to attempt to cross rivers, streams, or bridges under any circumstances. Floodwaters are unpredictable and extremely dangerous,” said Major General Scheepers.
The floods have also left a trail of infrastructure damage.
Limopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba said at least 438 roads have been damaged and several bridges have been swept away.
