Limpopo flooding leaves communities cut off, authorities on high alert

Flooding in Limpopo’s Vhembe district has left communities cut off and authorities on high alert as heavy rain continues to fall.

Rivers have overflowed in areas including Mutale, trapping scores of people and leaving roads and bridges impassable.

The provincial Department of Cooperative Governance said no official deaths or injuries have been recorded, but conditions remain dangerous, with flooding also reported in other parts of Limpopo.

Continuous rainfall has made it difficult for officials to access some communities, with several areas completely surrounded by water.

Authorities said that damage assessments are still under way, as roads and bridges remain closed.

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued orange level 6 and level 9 warnings for parts of the province, warning of disruptive and potentially dangerous rainfall, with an increased risk to life in low-lying and flood-prone areas.

“Communities are urged to reevaluate their outdoor activities, and also follow instructions from local authority,” said forecaster Amukelani Mkhari.

The situation remains extremely dangerous, with potential for drownings, homes or livestock to be swept away and conditions to worsen if rain continues.