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WORST FLOODING IN YEARS

25 February 2025 · Platinum Bushvelder

WORST FLOODING IN YEARS

SERIOUS FLOOD WARNING!
Stay alert. Stay safe. 
Help where you can! 

19 February 2025: The Thabazimbi region is in crisis as relentless rains have caused catastrophic flooding along the Crocodile River and surrounding low-lying areas. Roads are impassable, rescues are ongoing, and emergency teams are stretched to their limits. The situation is changing rapidly, and authorities urge residents to take immediate precautions.

Immediate dangers

  • Bridges swept away, including Beetstekraal Bridge.
  • A child was swept away by the floodwaters, but rescue teams rescued the child and multiple people had to be rescued from rooftops as water levels rose dangerously high.
  • Entire families, including a three-month-old baby, have been saved from rising waters.
  • Dwaalboom remains the most critical area, with multiple rescues underway.
  • Helicopters deployed to assist emergency services and transport medical personnel.
  • Emergency teams responding to distress calls in Rooibokkraal and Elandskuilbrug.

Road closures

  • R510 between Thabazimbi and Northam
  • D1235 (Brits road from Northam)
  • Low-water bridges to Tumela Mine
  • Multiple rural roads flooded, leaving some communities cut off.
  • Urgent safety measures
  • Move to higher ground immediately.
  • Pack emergency bags for possible evacuation.
  • Do NOT attempt to cross flooded roads — water levels are unpredictable and stronger than they appear!
  • Check the 2,000 flood line and prepare accordingly.
  • Share information about impassable roads with rescue teams to improve response efforts.

Emergency response
Sadly, one life was lost. At the time of going to print, no further details were available. Authorities are prioritising life-threatening situations, with helicopters flying in medical teams to inaccessible areas. Rescuers have already conducted 25 aviation rescues and 6 ground rescues on 19 February, and additional teams are being deployed to hard-hit zones. The biggest concern remains Dwaalboom, where floodwaters continue to rise.

A salute to our heroes
To Thaba Fire & Rescue, Matlabas, EMS teams, local mine rescue squads, and volunteers—your courage is saving lives. We thank you. Your tireless efforts, in the midst of chaos, are making all the difference.