United Nations stands in solidarity with communities affected by floods across Limpopo and Mpumalanga provinces

Pretoria, 16 January 2026 — The United Nations in South Africa expresses its sincere condolences to all families who have lost loved ones and stands in solidarity with communities affected across Limpopo and Mpumalanga provinces.

The heavy rains have tragically resulted in at least 19 confirmed deaths across the two provinces since the start of disruptive summer weather, as rivers overflow, bridges are damaged, and communities face rising danger. The South African Weather Service has maintained a Red Level 10 (disruptive rain) warning — its highest alert for life‑threatening flood risk across vulnerable areas.

“The floods have brought immense grief and disruption, and the shared task is clear: protect people now and rebuild smarter. Coordinated efforts are crucial as government, communities and partners work to restore services, safeguard livelihoods, and protect ecosystems under strain, so recovery strengthens resilience to future climate‑related extremes,” said Nelson Muffuh, United Nations Resident Coordinator in South Africa.

The floods have caused widespread destruction of homes and critical infrastructure, including schools, health facilities, roads, bridges, and low‑lying crossings. Many schools, clinics, and health facilities have been rendered inaccessible or damaged, and essential services remain disrupted in several communities. The floods have also disrupted protected ecosystems and heritage flora and fauna.

We commend the efforts of national, provincial, and local authorities, as well as emergency responders and community volunteers, who are working tirelessly under difficult conditions. President Cyril Ramaphosa has visited the hardest‑hit communities in Limpopo to assess the scale of damage as coordinated response efforts are stepped up with provincial and national disaster management teams.

As the situation evolves, the United Nations reaffirms its commitment to working with government and partners to support efforts to protect lives and enhance community safety; help restore essential services, infrastructure, and livelihoods; strengthen recovery and resilience to climate‑related disasters and extreme weather events.

For interviews and media enquiries, please contact Eunice Namugwe, UN Information Centre Pretoria, at Email: namugwe@un.org or Tel.: +27 71 6828 310.