South Africa declares national disaster over floods and rains that have killed 30 people

National Disaster Declaration in South Africa Due to Severe Weather

South Africa has declared a national disaster following torrential rains and flooding that have resulted in the loss of at least 30 lives in the northern regions. This weather event has caused substantial damage to infrastructure, including homes, roads, and bridges.

The declaration was issued by the National Disaster Management Center and officially announced by the government, enabling a coordinated national response to the crisis.

The most affected areas are the northern provinces of Limpopo and Mpumalanga, where the fatalities have occurred. The Ministry of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs has reported that additional provinces have also been impacted by the adverse weather conditions.

In neighboring countries such as Mozambique and Zimbabwe, heavy rains have similarly led to severe flooding. Since the onset of these conditions late last year, the cumulative death toll across these regions exceeds 100 individuals.

The premier of Limpopo province has estimated weather-related damages amounting to around $240 million. Numerous homes and structures have been completely destroyed.

Rescue efforts are ongoing to locate missing persons, including a 5-year-old child and a government official, both believed to have been swept away by floodwaters.

South Africa's Kruger National Park, one of the largest game reserves globally, is set to reopen after temporary closure due to flooding. The park spans approximately 2,000 hectares and borders Mozambique and Zimbabwe. It experienced significant damage, necessitating the evacuation of over 300 visitors and staff.

Historically, South Africa has faced severe flooding incidents, including events in the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal provinces, resulting in numerous fatalities in recent years.

Based on reporting by Africanews.