Limpopo continues to recover from the January floods, which claimed the lives of at least 18 people. The situation has worsened as the South African Weather Service issued a warning for disruptive rainfall from March 14 to 15, 2026. Over 100mm of rain was recorded in some areas within this period, leading to widespread flooding.
The Limpopo Provincial Government is actively assisting communities affected by the flooding, particularly in the Waterberg, Vhembe, and Mopani districts, where significant damage to roads and infrastructure has been reported. The Nwamanungu Dam is overflowing for the first time in years, posing a threat to nearby communities.
In response to the flooding, the Limpopo Education Department has suspended schooling in the Vhembe and Mopani districts to ensure the safety of students and staff. Premier Phophi Ramathuba urged residents to remain calm, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing safety by avoiding flooded rivers and minimizing movement.
“We urge our residents to remain calm and prioritise their safety by avoiding flooded rivers and minimising movement as much as possible,” said Premier Ramathuba. Meanwhile, MEC for Public Works, Roads and Infrastructure, Ernest Rachoene, stated, “Our teams, working together with the disaster management teams of municipalities and sister departments, will be on the ground to assess the extent of the damage caused.”
The Provincial Disaster Management Team is currently addressing urgent needs arising from the flooding, with efforts focused on providing support to affected communities. Residents are advised to avoid flooded roads and bridges for their safety.
As the situation develops, local authorities and the South African Weather Service will continue to monitor weather conditions and provide updates. Observers note that the challenges faced by the province are overwhelming, and there is a pressing need for resources to support recovery efforts.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full extent of the damage and the timeline for recovery, but officials are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of residents during this challenging time.
