South Africa’s Human Settlements Minister, Thembi Simelane, has confirmed that at least 38 people have died following severe flooding in the provinces of Limpopo and Mpumalanga, as authorities intensify efforts to provide emergency housing for affected communities.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Simelane said the death toll in Limpopo had risen from 17 to 18, while Mpumalanga has recorded 20 fatalities. Six people are still reported missing in Limpopo.
The floods were caused by several days of heavy rainfall, leaving widespread destruction in their wake and damaging or destroying thousands of homes across both provinces.
According to the minister, 1,942 homes have been identified as damaged in Limpopo and 1,808 in Mpumalanga, though these numbers may increase as assessments continue. She noted that ongoing severe weather and challenging terrain, particularly in parts of Limpopo, are slowing verification and relief operations.
Simelane emphasised that verifying affected households remains a critical part of the government’s response, as it determines the level of damage and the type of emergency housing assistance provided. While the process is still ongoing, support has already begun for households that have been verified.
The government has introduced a two-phase emergency housing programme for displaced residents. The first phase involves providing Temporary Emergency Accommodation for people currently housed in evacuation centres and mass care facilities.
In the second phase, Temporary Residential Units will be deployed, with 39 units allocated to the Mbaula area, 73 to Bushbuckridge, five to Blouberg and 13 to Makhado.
Simelane said she, alongside the Human Settlements MECs from Limpopo and Mpumalanga, will visit affected areas over the next two days to oversee the rollout and ensure communities receive the necessary support. She also expressed condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and praised local communities and organisations for assisting residents who have lost their homes and livelihoods.
