Large areas of north-eastern South Africa and neighbouring Mozambique have been inundated for several days due to exceptionally heavy rainfall. The deluge, driven by a slow-moving cut-off low pressure system, has triggered intense downpours, leading to a flood warning being raised to the highest level.

Some locations in South Africa recorded hundreds of millimeters of rain over the weekend. Graskop in Mpumalanga experienced 113mm of rainfall in 24 hours, while Phalaborwa recorded approximately 85mm. Rain continued to fall across the region after the weekend, exacerbating the already critical situation. A fallen tree blocked a road in Giyani, north-eastern South Africa, disrupting transportation and highlighting the severity of the weather's impact.

The cut-off low pressure system responsible for the extreme rainfall has remained anchored over the region, repeatedly drawing in moisture and triggering the intense downpours, according to Ishani Mistry and Ollie Lewis. This weather pattern is unusual for the region and has overwhelmed existing infrastructure.

Further heavy rainfall is expected on Friday and over the weekend. Maputo, Mozambique's capital, could expect daily rainfall totals to exceed 200mm by the end of Friday, according to weather forecasts. The continued rainfall poses a significant threat to the region, potentially leading to further flooding, displacement, and damage to infrastructure. Evacuations have already been ordered in Kruger National Park due to rising water levels. The situation remains dynamic, and emergency services are working to assist affected communities.