An aerial view of the Letaba Rest Camp on 15 January. Picture: Sanparks South African National Parks (SANParks) has begun evacuating staff from Kruger National Park as dangerous rainfall levels are expected to intensify. The park suspended day visits on Thursday morning, with rivers now flowing well over bridge-level and most camps completely flooded.
The South African Weather Service issued a Red Level 10 warning for the park and surrounding municipalities. Heavy rains continue to lash Limpopo and Mpumalanga, forcing SANParks to implement emergency measures. SANParks apologised for the inconvenience but said it sought to prevent possible emergency situations that could divert essential services.
“SANParks is mindful of the current strain on operational and emergency responses on resources during this period of persistent rainfall,” SANParks spokesperson JP Louw said. “The park has taken a precautionary decision not to allow day visitors into Kruger National Park until conditions improve. “The decision to restrict day visitor access is a preventative safety measure and will be reviewed continuously as weather and road conditions change.” Helicopters were seen near the Letaba rest camp as SANParks decided to evacuate staff and guests. “Letaba rest camp is busy evacuating both staff and guests as the water has moved into the rest camp, breaking from the Letaba River,” Louw said.
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