At least 37 people have died following severe flooding in Mpumalanga and Limpopo, as heavy rains continue to wreak havoc across parts of the two provinces.
Mpumalanga has recorded 20 flood-related fatalities, while Limpopo has confirmed 17 deaths. Authorities say incidents of drowning are still being reported, particularly in areas such as Phalaborwa, Giyani, and Thohoyandou.
Persistent rainfall has caused extensive damage to infrastructure, with numerous homes, roads, and bridges either partially or completely destroyed.
Limpopo Disaster Management Centre spokesperson Tsakani Baloyi confirmed that the province has welcomed the declaration of a national disaster in flood-affected areas, which is expected to accelerate relief and recovery efforts.
Limpopo MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs, Basikopo Makamu, has expressed deep concern over the rising death toll. He conveyed his condolences to the families of the victims and communities affected by the severe weather, which has had the greatest impact on the Mopani, Vhembe, Waterberg and parts of the Sekhukhune districts.
Schools Affected by Flooding
The Limpopo Department of Education says schools in the worst-hit areas did not reopen as scheduled when inland schools began the 2026 academic year.
Department spokesperson Mike Maringa said that only educators will return to schools on Monday to assess flood damage and determine whether it is safe to resume teaching.
“Educators who are in safe locations and are able to reach their schools are expected to report for duty on Monday, 19 January 2026,” Maringa said. “Learners are expected to return on Tuesday, 20 January 2026, provided conditions are safe.”
He emphasised that teachers should only return if doing so does not place their lives at risk.
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