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, prompting a flood warning raised to the highest level and forcing evacuations in areas including Kruger National Park.
Some locations in South Africa recorded hundreds of millimeters of rain over the weekend. Graskop in Mpumalanga, for example, experienced 113mm of rainfall in a 24-hour period, while Phalaborwa recorded approximately 85mm. The rainfall has continued across the region since the weekend.
The cut-off low pressure system, which has remained anchored over the region, repeatedly drew in moisture, exacerbating the situation. Forecasters predict further heavy rainfall on Friday and over the weekend. Maputo, Mozambique's capital, could see daily rainfall totals exceeding 200mm by the end of Friday, according to weather analysis.
The extreme weather event highlights the increasing vulnerability of Southern Africa to climate change impacts. Scientists have long warned that rising global temperatures will lead to more frequent and intense extreme weather events, including floods and droughts. The current situation underscores the urgent need for improved disaster preparedness and climate resilience measures.
The South African Weather Service issued warnings for disruptive rainfall leading to flooding in parts of Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and KwaZulu-Natal. Roads have been washed away in some areas, hindering rescue efforts and disrupting transportation. A fallen tree blocked a road in Giyani, north-eastern South Africa, further complicating travel.
Authorities are working to provide assistance to affected communities, including evacuating residents from flood-prone areas and providing emergency shelter and supplies. However, the scale of the disaster is straining resources, and there are concerns about the potential for further damage and displacement. The full extent of the damage and the number of people affected is still being assessed.
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