Guests at the Kruger National Park evacuated due to severe thunderstorm warning

A level six weather warning has been issued for severe thunderstorms and rainfall in Limpopo and Mpumalanga from Sunday evening. 

This as a low-pressure system in Mozambique that is moving over the north-eastern provinces of South Africa. 

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned of possible flooding and damage to infrastructure in both provinces due to inclement weather.

Similar warnings were also issued for northern parts of KwaZulu-Natal for the weekend.

Torrential downpours are expected in Limpopo and Mpumalanga, with severe thunderstorms predicted for most of the week. 

SAWS forecaster Lehlohonolo Thobela said, "The current weather forecast indicates that the lowveld of Mpumalanga, the Limpopo valley and most parts of eastern areas of Limpopo are likely to experience widespread and persistent rain and thunderstorms up until Wednesday and even." 

Meanwhile, SANparks has taken precautionary measures to safeguard guests at the Kruger National Park.

SANparks head of communications and spokesperson JP Louw said, "As a precaution Shingwedzi, Sirheni, and Bateleur camps have been evacuated to avoid challenges in the event of flooding, while guests at Balule and Pafuri are given the option to stay, as these areas are not at risk."

Louw said that plans have been made to safely transport guests flying in and out to Skukuza Airport to their relevant destinations.