Following a level 10 warning issued by the South African Weather Service (SAWS) for Limpopo and Mpumalanga, the Kruger National Park has closed its gates to day visitors.  

Letaba Rest Camp is currently evacuating staff and guests after the Letaba River breached its banks, flooding the camp. 

In a statement, JP Louw, the SANParks spokesperson, said that earlier this week, several day visitors were unable to exit the park after a bridge at Crocodile Bridge Gate was flooded.  

Although all affected visitors were guided to safety, the incident underscored the dangers presented by the ongoing weather conditions, he said, adding that SANParks is ‘mindful of the current strain’ on operational and emergency resources. 

Louw added that the organisation would rather concentrate its resources on genuine emergencies and safeguarding guests, staff and surrounding communities, instead of dealing with avoidable incidents caused by non-essential travel in the park. 

“The decision to restrict day visitor access is a preventative safety measure and will be reviewed continuously as weather and road conditions change.” 
 
He said SANParks apologises for the inconvenience and appreciates the understanding and co-operation of the public.

“The safety of all visitors and staff remains our highest priority.”  

Phalaborwa Gate will also close for at least 24 hours.

“This means at the moment, there is no access into the northern parts of the park,” Louw said.  

Weather forecast 

In a statement, SAWS said heavy rain is expected to persist over the next two days over the Eastern parts of Limpopo and Mpumalanga due to the tropical weather system.  

“Weather models indicate another 100–200mm of accumulated rain over the next two days, in regions that are already saturated with overflowing rivers and dams,” said SAWS. 

It says this could cause widespread flooding of roads and settlements, danger to life, displacement of communities, danger to property, buildings, loss of livelihood and stock and the washing away or damage of major roads and bridges. 

SAWS added that weather conditions are expected to improve from January 19.  

Relaxed regulars 

Regular visitors to the area, Karin Swanepoel (60) and her 76-year-old husband, Chris, say that even though they have experienced flooding before, they are taking the heavy rains in stride and enjoying their time in the area. 

Currently staying in a chalet at Burchell’s Bush Lodge, near the Paul Kruger Gate, they enjoyed a day visit to the park on Saturday. 

“It’s been raining here day and night. The majority of the roads are closed due to high-level water,” says Karin.  

“Three years ago, we woke up at Ngwenya Lodge with the Crocodile River coming down in full force, carrying trees. Even the game on the side of Ngwenya drowned, as they couldn’t reach dry ground,” says Karin. 

She adds she experienced floods in 2000 when the Sabie and Sand rivers burst their banks, and low-level bridges flooded. 

Despite the heavy rain, Karin says she is feeling relaxed and safe.  

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