South Africa floods kill 38 in Limpopo and Mpumalanga

Emergency Housing Response to Flooding in Limpopo and Mpumalanga

The Human Settlements Minister of South Africa, Thembi Simelane, has reported an increase in the death toll from recent flooding in Limpopo and Mpumalanga, now totaling 38. The government is intensifying its emergency housing support for affected communities.

As of Tuesday, the fatalities in Limpopo have risen from 17 to 18, while Mpumalanga reports 20 deaths, with six individuals still missing in Limpopo. The floods, resulting from prolonged intense rainfall, have caused significant damage to thousands of homes in both provinces.

In Limpopo, 1,942 houses have been documented as damaged, and in Mpumalanga, 1,808 homes have been affected. These numbers are expected to increase as assessments continue. Severe weather and challenging terrain in Limpopo are hindering verification and relief efforts.

Verification of affected households is a critical component of the government's response strategy. It determines the extent of damage and the appropriate type of emergency housing support required. While the verification process is ongoing, support has begun for households already confirmed as affected.

The government has implemented a two-phase emergency housing plan for displaced residents:

Phase One: The Department of Human Settlements is procuring Temporary Emergency Accommodation for individuals currently in mass care centres and evacuation sites. Phase Two: Temporary Residential Units will be acquired, with allocations as follows: 39 units for Mbaula, 73 for Bushbuckridge, 5 for Blouberg, and 13 for Makhado.

Minister Simelane, alongside the Limpopo and Mpumalanga MECs for Human Settlements, will be present in the affected areas over the next two days to oversee the implementation of the housing plan and ensure communities receive the necessary assistance.

Based on reporting by Africanews.