South Africa has declared ongoing floods a national disaster as the country confronts the aftermath of weeks of torrential rain that has killed at least 30 people, displaced communities and caused extensive damage to homes, roads and public infrastructure.
The announcement, issued by the National Disaster Management Centre and confirmed by the government on Sunday, enables national authorities to coordinate emergency operations across multiple provinces hit by severe weather.
It is intended to accelerate relief, repair damaged infrastructure and support ongoing rescue operations as the rains persist.
Limpopo and Mpumalanga provinces remain the worst affected, accounting for most of the fatalities and widespread destruction.
Limpopo officials estimate damage in the province at roughly $241 million, with homes, bridges and public buildings washed away.
Search‑and‑rescue teams continue to operate under hazardous conditions as swollen rivers complicate access to affected communities.
The death toll in Limpopo stood at 18 on Monday, according to provincial disaster authorities, with at least five people still missing.
The floods forced the temporary closure of the Kruger National Park last week where hundreds of tourists and staff were evacuated from inundated camps.
The Ministry of Cooperative Governance said three additional provinces have reported flood impacts, warning that saturated ground and rising river levels continue to pose risks.
JN/APA