Heavy rains have left a trail of destruction across Limpopo, with Vhembe and Mopani districts the hardest hit.
Homes, businesses, and schools have been trashed as massive floods swallowed large parts of the two districts.
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Overflowing rivers and dams forced residents to flee in fear. The Mutale River in Vhembe and the Letaba River in Mopani burst their banks, with viral videos showing the terrifying damage.
Homes, businesses, and schools were affected by heavy floods in large parts of the Vhembe and Mopani districts, Limpopo.
In a dramatic rescue, three family members trapped between the Mutale River and a stream at Gwakwani were saved on Tuesday, 12 January, after being stuck since Monday.
Some Vhembe residents who were trapped between the Mutale River and a stream at Gwakwani were rescued on Tuesday, 12 January
Daily life is at a standstill.
Schools that were supposed to reopen on Wednesday, 13 January, have remained shut. Limpopo remains under a level nine weather warning from the South African Weather Service.
Departmental spokesman Mike Maringa said: “We wish to inform parents, guardians, and teachers in the affected districts not to reopen schools this week. This is to ensure the safety of learners and educators.”
He said disaster teams are monitoring the situation.
“The floods have disrupted food deliveries and will also affect scholar transport, especially for learners who travel long distances,” Maringa said.
Meanwhile, Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs MEC Basikop Makamu has called for an emergency meeting for Wednesday, 13 January.
Makamu said the worst-hit areas include
• Ba-Phalaborwa
• Collins Chabane
• Greater Giyani
• Greater Letaba
• Greater Tzaneen
• Maruleng
• Makhado
• Musina
• Thulamela
“Many people have lost their belongings, others have had their homes damaged and have nowhere to stay, said Makamu. Human dignity must be prioritised, as well as the livelihoods of affected families.”
