South Africa has officially declared a national disaster following weeks of severe flooding that has wreaked havoc across the country, leaving dozens dead and forcing thousands to flee their homes. The floods have heavily affected the northeastern provinces of Limpopo and Mpumalanga, where rivers have burst their banks, sweeping away entire communities and infrastructure.
The National Disaster Management Centre, led by Elias Sithole, announced the declaration on Sunday, citing the magnitude of the destruction. Over 30 lives have been lost in South Africa alone, and many others have been displaced as floodwaters continue to rise.
“Given the scale of the devastation and the ongoing threat, I classify this as a national disaster,” Sithole said in a statement.
Devastation in South Africa and Mozambique
The damage has not been confined to South Africa. The heavy rains and storms have also impacted neighboring Mozambique, where flash floods have submerged entire neighborhoods, particularly in the southern regions. The Mozambican government reported that over 173,000 people have been affected by the floods since December 21, 2025, with at least eight deaths confirmed.
In one harrowing incident, a woman in Gaza province, just north of the capital Maputo, gave birth on a roof while waiting for rescue. “We’ve been stranded here for four days. My nephew was born last night, and still, no rescue team has come to assist,” said Chauna Macuacua, a resident of the area.
As the floodwaters began to recede in some parts of South Africa, rescue operations intensified, particularly in the iconic Kruger National Park, which was temporarily closed and evacuated earlier in the week. “Day visitation to the park will resume tomorrow, but visitors are urged to remain cautious,” South African National Parks stated in a social media post.
Slow Rescue Efforts and International Aid
Rescue operations in Mozambique have been slower, as many survivors are still trapped on rooftops and in trees. “The situation is worsening as floodwaters continue to rise. More bodies are being discovered, and the numbers of missing persons are increasing,” said Wilker Dias, director of the civil society group Plataforma Decide.
A car carrying five South African officials was swept away by floodwaters near Chokwe, 200 kilometers north of Maputo. The South African government has sent additional rescue teams to assist in Mozambique.
The situation remains critical, with both countries continuing to search for survivors while facing challenges posed by the floodwaters and the growing death toll.
Global Attention and Humanitarian Response
With thousands displaced and entire communities devastated, both South Africa and Mozambique are bracing for further challenges in the coming days. The international community, including humanitarian organizations, has been urged to step up efforts to provide emergency relief, especially in the worst-hit areas.
As recovery operations continue, authorities are calling for urgent assistance and resources to mitigate the effects of the floods and support those who have lost everything.
