Kruger floods update: SANParks praises staff for heroic acts
Kruger National Park staff earned widespread praise for heroic air and ground rescues that kept guests safe during severe flooding.
Amid uncertainty and chaos, Kruger National Park staff have proved themselves heroes as they continue to battle severe flooding to ensure guests’ safety. SANParks has commended pilots and on-the-ground staff for their professionalism and for carrying out evacuations with care and compassion.
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A photograph of a SANParks pilot and ranger carefully airlifting two young girls has been widely shared on social media, melting South Africans’ hearts.
“To every crew member, ranger and rescuer working tirelessly in the Kruger – thank you for protecting not just lives, but childhoods. You are the guardians of our wild spaces and of the people who come to love them,” SANParks shared.
Many guests have since shared similar experiences following evacuations from flooded camps. French tourist Va Ness posted a video on Facebook showing how pilots and rangers rescued visitors stranded at Crocodile Bridge Rest Camp.
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“We were stuck in the Kruger Park since yesterday, January 14. A helicopter came and rescued us on the other side of the Crocodile Bridge. Thank you so much! And thank you also to the shop staff; they were incredibly kind and patient with everyone,” she wrote.
Belgian tourist Tiziana Troukens recounted a similar experience after she and her father were stranded at Olifants Rest Camp. She confirmed on January 16 that they were safely evacuated the previous day and spent the night at Satara before floodwaters reached the camp. They were transported to Orpen the following morning and exited the park via Paul Kruger Gate.
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“We arrived at the Shalati Bridge to get to the airport and were still in time for our flight,” she said, praising staff for their hard work and kindness.
The SANParks Honorary Rangers also thanked staff, pilots, rangers and support teams for assisting with the safe evacuation of K9 units.
“Your swift, co-ordinated efforts and exceptional care ensured the safe airlifting and evacuation of the dogs from the Mahlangeni and Letaba ranger posts.”
