CoGTA Minister Urges Heightened Vigilance as Heavy Rains Continue in Limpopo and Mpumalanga

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a Red Level 10 weather alert for parts of Limpopo and Mpumalanga, warning of disruptive rainfall and an elevated risk of flooding.

The Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Mr Velenkosini Hlabisa, has urged communities in Limpopo and Mpumalanga to exercise heightened caution and strictly adhere to safety measures as persistent heavy rainfall continues to affect large parts of the two provinces.

Communities in the Vhembe, Mopani, Sekhukhune, Waterberg and Capricorn Districts of Limpopo, as well as parts of the Ehlanzeni District in Mpumalanga—including Nkomazi, the City of Mbombela and Bushbuckridge—are experiencing localised flooding, road disruptions, and damage to homes and critical infrastructure. Several schools and clinics in affected areas remain closed.

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a Red Level 10 weather alert for parts of Limpopo and Mpumalanga, warning of disruptive rainfall and an elevated risk of flooding.

“These conditions require vigilance and responsible action from everyone. Communities are urged to follow official guidance and take precautionary steps to protect lives and property,” Minister Hlabisa said, noting that further rainfall is expected in the coming days.

Government Response and High-Level Assessments

The warning follows a visit on Wednesday by President Cyril Ramaphosa to flood-affected areas in Limpopo to assess the extent of damage and government response efforts. The President was accompanied by Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba and Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni.

During the visit, the President inspected Mbaula village in the Mopani District, where more than 38 houses were swept away, leaving many residents homeless. He also began his assessment in Tshakhuma, where several homes remain waterlogged.

President Ramaphosa assured affected communities that government resources have been mobilised to assist with rescue operations and humanitarian relief.

Public Facilities and Tourism Impacted

As a precautionary measure due to ongoing heavy rainfall, the Kruger National Park has prohibited day visitors until weather conditions improve, citing safety concerns.

The CoGTA Department has called on traditional leaders, ward councillors and community organisations to support information dissemination and promote compliance with safety instructions within their communities.

The Department, through the National and Provincial Disaster Management Centres, remains on high alert and continues to coordinate with all relevant stakeholders to monitor developments and provide emergency support where required.

Safety Measures for Residents in High-Risk Areas

CoGTA has urged residents in affected and high-risk areas to strictly observe the following safety precautions:

• Avoid crossing flooded roads, bridges and rivers, whether on foot or by vehicle

• Move to higher ground when water levels rise or when evacuation instructions are issued

• Stay clear of damaged or unstable infrastructure, including weakened bridges, flooded buildings and fallen power lines

• Keep children and livestock away from flooded areas, streams and drainage channels

• Monitor official weather updates and alerts from SAWS, municipalities and disaster management authorities

• Report flooding, damage or emergencies immediately to local disaster management centres or municipal authorities

• Assist vulnerable individuals, including the elderly, persons with disabilities and children, where it is safe to do so

• Rely only on official communication channels and avoid spreading unverified information

Minister Hlabisa reiterated that public cooperation remains essential as government agencies continue response and relief efforts amid challenging weather conditions.