NATIONAL DISASTER DECLARED | FLOODS & SEVERE WEATHER – 19 JANUARY 2026
As of 19 January 2026, the South African government has officially classified the widespread flooding and severe weather across five provinces as a National Disaster. This declaration follows devastating rainfall, strong winds, and lightning experienced since late November 2025, leaving communities reeling from loss and destruction.
Affected Provinces:
Limpopo | Mpumalanga | KwaZulu-Natal | Eastern Cape | North West
Impact (as of 19 Jan 2026):
• 37 lives lost
• Extensive damage to homes, roads, and critical infrastructure
• Thousands of families displaced and in urgent need of support
The National Disaster classification enables the National Executive to lead and coordinate relief efforts under the Disaster Management Act. On 19 January 2026, President Cyril Ramaphosa visited flood-affected areas in Mpumalanga to assess the damage and strengthen government response.
United Humanitarian Response
The government has commended the tireless efforts of partners working on the ground, including:
• Gift of the Givers Foundation – search & rescue, food, water, and humanitarian aid
• South African Red Cross Society – emergency relief and support to vulnerable communities
• Oxfam South Africa & City Hope Disaster Relief – survivor assistance
• SAPS, SANDF & Provincial Disaster Management Teams
Our hearts are with the affected families and communities. Solidarity, compassion, and coordinated action remain critical as recovery efforts continue.
#NationalDisaster
#FloodResponse
#OnTheSideOfHumanity
#AlwaysNeededAlwaysThere
#SARCS
#SouthAfrica
#DisasterRelief
#CommunitySolidarity
