The Crocodile River flowing past Tekwane South outside Mbombela has flooded a home and a small-scale farm.

A family, who wished to remain anonymous, evacuated their home through the windows at midnight on Thursday, January 15. The house flooded, damaging furniture and appliances. They sought assistance from neighbours.

No injuries were reported.

A small-scale farmer, Samuel Mathabela, relies on the river for irrigatio for his chilli farm which has now flooded, destroying the plants.
“I had a little market to sell the chillies, but I won’t be able to harvest anything soon due to the flood,” Mathabela said.

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The South African Weather Service has predicted more rain over the weekend with a red level 10 warning. Conditions continue to pose a severe risk to life, livelihoods and infrastructure. Residents are urged to take immediate precautions.

Authorities warn of danger to life from fast-flowing rivers and streams, flooding of roads, bridges and low-lying crossings, and widespread damage to property, settlements and critical infrastructure.

The public is urged to:
• Avoid crossing flooded roads, bridges and rivers.
• Move to higher ground if flooding occurs.
• Follow instructions from local authorities and disaster management teams.
• In homes, valuables should be moved above expected flood levels and electricity should be switched off at the supply point in case of emergency.
• Farmers in low-lying areas are encouraged to relocate animals to higher ground
• Evacuation orders must be followed without delay.