LIMPOPO – The South African Air Force’s 19 Squadron, based at Air Force Base Hoedspruit, conducted a dramatic late-night rescue operation on Wednesday, January 14, airlifting stranded guests and staff from a flooded lodge near Phalaborwa as severe weather continued to batter parts of Limpopo.

Late-night rescue mission as a river bursts its banks

The operation took place at approximately 22:00 after the Olifants River burst its banks. The unusually high rainfall, well above normal seasonal levels within a short period, resulted in washed-away roads and damage to critical infrastructure. In several areas, homes and businesses were inundated, forcing residents to evacuate and disrupting daily activities.

Kambaku Lodge, situated outside Phalaborwa, was among the properties severely affected by the floods. Rising water levels surrounded the lodge, cutting off all access routes and trapping guests, staff members and management inside the premises.

Challenging conditions for the aircrew

An Agusta A109 helicopter from the Hoedspruit AFB was dispatched to the scene. Despite challenging night-time conditions and poor weather, the 19 Squadron aircrew successfully airlifted and evacuated 18 people, including lodge guests, staff and management, as well as two dogs. All were safely transported to Bush Villas, a neighbouring guest lodge in Phalaborwa, where they received assistance and shelter. No injuries were reported during the operation.

Deidré Carter of Agri-Limpopo expressed her appreciation for the swift and coordinated response by emergency services. She thanked the South African Air Force, the police and the Hoedspruit Farm Watch for their roles in ensuring the safety of those stranded. Carter also praised the bravery and professionalism of the 19 Squadron aircrew, naming Lt Col Stefan King, Maj Peter Rabie and Sgt Scelo Mpontshane for flying under extreme weather conditions to complete the rescue.

The Hoedspruit Farm Watch played a crucial role in activating the Air Force response and has been actively involved in several flood-related rescue operations in and around Hoedspruit. These efforts included assisting stranded motorists and residents along the R40 road and in the Mica area, where flooding has made travel dangerous and, in some cases, impossible.

Warnings of more rain

Meanwhile, the South African Weather Service has warned that heavy rainfall will continue throughout the week. Authorities have warned that further flooding is possible, particularly in low-lying areas and near rivers and bridges.

Residents have been advised to remain indoors where possible, avoid unnecessary travel and exercise extreme caution when moving through flood-affected areas to prevent injuries, loss of life and damage to vehicles.

Air Force Base Hoedspruit said that under the command of Brig Gen Victor Tshunungwa, it is committed to supporting rescue missions and humanitarian operations as Limpopo continues to deal with the impact of severe weather.