Severe Weather Forces Evacuations in Kruger National Park and Surrounding Regions

Key Takeaways:

• The Kruger National Park has evacuated several camps in Limpopo due to a Level 6 severe weather warning issued by the South African Weather Service (SAWS)
• The evacuation affects Shingwedzi, Sirheni, and Bateleur camps, which are considered vulnerable to flooding
• Guests and staff at the bush camps of Talamati, Biyamiti, and Roodewaal are being relocated to Satara and Lower Sabie rest camps
• KwaZulu-Natal is also on high alert after SAWS issued an Orange Level 5 warning for severe thunderstorms
• The KZN MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs has established a Joint Operations Centre (JOC) to manage the anticipated Level 4 and Level 5 weather threats

Introduction to the Severe Weather Warning
The Kruger National Park has taken proactive measures to safeguard its guests and staff by evacuating several camps in Limpopo after the South African Weather Service (SAWS) issued a Level 6 severe weather warning for the province. The warning, which is effective from Sunday, 11 January, to Monday, 12 January 2026, has prompted the park to take precautions to avoid potential difficulties should flooding occur. According to Kruger National Park spokesperson Reynold Thakhuli, the move is purely preventative, and there are no injuries or fatalities reported.

Evacuation of Camps
The precautionary evacuation affects Shingwedzi, Sirheni, and Bateleur camps, which are considered vulnerable to flooding owing to their location in the northern region of the park. Guests at these camps are being relocated to safer areas, while guests at Balule and Pafuri camps have been given the option to remain, as these areas are not considered at risk. Thakhuli confirmed that contingency plans are in place for travelers flying in and out of Skukuza Airport, with access to be managed through the Shalati Railway Station. All concession operators are part of the park’s Disaster Management Committee, ensuring a coordinated response to any incidents.

Impact on Guests and Staff
Guests and staff at the bush camps of Talamati, Biyamiti, and Roodewaal are being relocated to Satara and Lower Sabie rest camps, which remain accessible via Tshokwane. This move is intended to ensure the safety of all individuals in the park, and Thakhuli has assured that the evacuations are being carried out in a controlled and orderly manner. For those who need to cancel or reschedule their Kruger National Park bookings, the central reservations line is available on 012 428 9111 during working hours.

KwaZulu-Natal on High Alert
KwaZulu-Natal is also bracing for heavy rain, with SAWS issuing an Orange Level 5 warning for severe thunderstorms. The warning indicates a medium likelihood of heavy rainfall leading to flooding, damaging winds, hail, and excessive lightning. The KZN MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has established a Joint Operations Centre (JOC) to manage the anticipated Level 4 and Level 5 weather threats. The JOC brings together provincial disaster management teams, emergency services, and state agencies to ensure a coordinated and rapid response to any incidents.

Preparations and Precautions
Several areas in KwaZulu-Natal, including Abaqulusi, Jozini, Mtubatuba, Big Five Hlabisa, Nongoma, uMhlathuze, and uPhongolo, are on high alert. Buthelezi has placed disaster management teams on high alert, and they are conducting close-range monitoring of areas historically prone to flooding and infrastructure damage. The establishment of the JOC is a proactive measure to ensure that the province is prepared to respond to the severe weather warning. With rainfall expected to exceed 100mm in some concentrated areas, the JOC will coordinate all disaster management responses to minimize the impact of the severe weather.

Conclusion and Next Steps
In conclusion, the Kruger National Park and KwaZulu-Natal are taking proactive measures to prepare for the severe weather warning issued by SAWS. The evacuation of camps in the Kruger National Park and the establishment of the JOC in KwaZulu-Natal demonstrate the commitment to ensuring the safety of guests, staff, and residents. As the severe weather warning remains in effect, it is essential for individuals to stay informed and follow the instructions of local authorities to minimize the risk of injury or damage. By working together, the province can mitigate the impact of the severe weather and ensure a safe and successful response to any incidents that may arise.