PICS| SANDF Deployed In Limpopo As Floodwaters Trap Residents On Rooftops And Trees

South African National Defence Force (SANDF) helicopters have been deployed in dramatic rescue operations across flood-ravaged parts of Limpopo, as relentless rainfall continues to devastate communities and surrounding areas, including the Kruger National Park.

The emergency response follows widespread evacuations, rising river levels and growing fears of further loss of life.

SANDF Aircrews Rush to Flood-Ravaged Limpopo

The SANDF confirmed that search and rescue teams from the South African Air Force’s 17 and 19 Squadrons were activated after an emergency alert from the Air Force Command Post on Thursday.

Three helicopters from bases in Pretoria and Hoedspruit were deployed to conduct rescue missions in severely affected areas.

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“The operation started on 14 January 2026 from 23:00 up until 15 January 2026, 02:00, wherein members risked severe weather to rescue people whose lives were in danger of drowning,” the SANDF said.

One of the first missions involved rescuing a family from Mbaula Village outside Giyani.

Chief Airlifted as Residents Stranded on Rooftops and Trees

The SANDF said communities informed rescue crews that several residents had already been pulled from rooftops and higher ground as floodwaters surged.

“One of the family members was rescued from a tree along the Olifants River, which is flooded and thus threatening nearby residents,” the SANDF said.

A local chief was also rescued from the roof of his home. Crews continued assisting people trapped in trees, while those requiring medical attention were airlifted to Maphutha Hospital near Phalaborwa.

An ORYX helicopter was also dispatched to rescue Border Management Authority and South African Police Service members who were surrounded by water at the Phafuri Port of Entry. In a separate operation, an AGUSTA A109 helicopter hoisted 18 people to safety from the flooded Khambaku Lodge outside Phalaborwa.

Toddler Swept Away as Red Level 10 Warning Issued

Limpopo MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs Basikopo Makamu confirmed the province’s first weather-related fatality.

He said a four-year-old child, who had been trapped with his mother in a tree, was swept away by floodwaters before rescuers could reach them.

“One death is too many. We are deeply saddened by this unwarranted loss of life. We urge communities to be extra vigilant as heavy rains continue to plague our province,” Makamu said.

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The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a red level 10 warning for Limpopo for 15 and 16 January 2026, warning of continued heavy downpours across areas including Ba-Phalaborwa, Chabane, Greater Giyani, Greater Letaba, Greater Tzaneen and Maruleng.

Makamu cautioned that the persistent rain could lead to widespread flooding of roads and settlements, displacement of communities, damage to property and infrastructure, loss of livelihoods and livestock, and prolonged disruption of essential services such as water, electricity and access to schools.

Province Considers Disaster Declaration as Flood Risk Remains High

Makamu said the provincial government is compiling reports on damage caused by the heavy rainfall, with municipalities tasked to submit consolidated assessments.

“We are also looking into prospects of applying for a declaration of the Provincial State of Disaster, so that adequate financial resources can be allocated to mitigate against the impact of the heavy rains,” he said.

He added that with further rainfall expected, the risk of widespread flooding remains critically high and urged residents to heed safety warnings.

“Communities are urged to avoid crossing flooded rivers, bridges and streams, as well as unnecessary travelling, especially when it rains,” Makamu said.

On Thursday, President Cyril Ramaphosa, accompanied by Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni and Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba, visited Mbaula Village and surrounding areas to assess the extent of the damage caused by the severe weather.

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