One of the flooded roads in Giyani, Mopani District.
The provincial Department of Education has once again temporarily suspended schooling in several districts severely affected by persistent heavy rainfall and the risk of flash floods.
Notably, the Vhembe and Mopani districts remain the hardest hit, with many roads rendered impassable, effectively cutting off access to numerous schools. Compounding the situation, the Capricorn South and Waterberg districts have also reported incidents and structural concerns, which may further disrupt schooling if the heavy rains continue overnight.
To safeguard the lives of learners and educators, the department has taken a decisive step to suspend schooling for two days, March 16 and 17 in all affected areas.
Departmental spokesperson Mike Maringa noted that the safety of learners and staff is a paramount concern. “With reports of flooded roads and compromised building integrity, the suspension is a necessary measure to prevent any potential tragedies. In addition to reported accessibility challenges, the department has received reports of leaking roofs and water damage in school buildings, which pose a direct safety risk. “Furthermore, the department has noted with deep concern a spate of burglaries at schools during this disruptive period, with criminals targeting nutrition programme stockpiles and electronic equipment” he said.
Maringa said district offices have already communicated the suspension to all affected schools and circuit managers, who are in turn responsible for notifying parents and school governing bodies.
“For clarity, parents and guardians seeking specific information on school status in their area should contact their school principals or the local circuit manager. Learners unable to sit for scheduled tests due to the flooding will be given an opportunity to write at a later date once normalcy is restored.
Parents are strongly urged not to allow or force learners to attempt crossing flooded bridges or swollen rivers to reach school. Learner safety is the priority.
“The department, in coordination with District Municipalities and disaster management teams, will continue to closely monitor the weather situation and its impact on school infrastructure and accessibility. A further update will be provided as conditions evolve.
Meanwhile, the provincial government says it is on high alert to address the severe flooding situation that has resurfaced across the affected districts.
With some areas experiencing over 100 mm of rain, the province stands vigilant and proactive in its response to the ongoing crisis.
Premier Phophi Ramathuba says that the present floods are a stark reminder of the warnings issued by the South African Weather Services, indicating that Limpopo is still at risk through the end of March.
“We have received numerous distress calls, particularly from residents in affected districts where essential roads have been devastated. Incidents such as mudslides along the R523 between Khalavha and Sibasa and major challenges on the R33 in Waterberg have been reported. Many low-lying bridges are submerged, rendering roads impassable to schools and health facilities,” she said.
Considering these pressing circumstances, Ramathuba reassured residents that the Provincial Disaster Management Team is actively addressing these urgent needs. However, she cautioned that the saturated conditions may lead to delays in reaching some isolated areas.
“We urge our residents to remain calm and prioritise their safety by avoiding flooded rivers and minimising movement as much as possible,” she emphasised.
Significantly, the province has observed the Nwamanungu (Middle Letaba) Dam overflowing for the first time in years, posing a dire threat to communities previously spared from such floods.
As the South African Weather Services has issued level 4 to 2 warnings from March 14 to March 15, the potential for road flooding and danger to life remains high, alongside the displacement of communities and substantial traffic disruption.
The Limpopo Provincial Disaster Management Centre (PDMC) said it is fully prepared to assist all affected communities.
Moreover, the premier said they will continue to appeal to national government for immediate reconsideration of funding to address the urgent needs arising from this ongoing disaster.
She said, “The challenges the province faces are overwhelming, and the residents deserve the resources necessary to navigate these trials.”