Urgent Search Underway in Limpopo as Two Men Remain Missing Amid Devastating Floods
Viable News Team 
Limpopo communities are on high alert as the province continues to experience relentless rainfall, triggering widespread flooding, structural damage, and a growing number of missing-person cases. Authorities have intensified warnings as rescue teams work to locate two men who were swept away by powerful floodwaters in separate incidents earlier this month.
The first tragedy struck on March 9, 2026, when a 36-year-old man was carried away by the raging Nwanedi River in Khubvi Village, located in the Vhembe District. Just days earlier, on March 3, a 53-year-old man went missing at Makuleke Dam in the Collins Chabane Local Municipality. Despite continuous search efforts, both men have yet to be found, leaving their families and communities in distress.
At least one other person has already lost their life due to the intensifying floods, amplifying concerns about the dangers posed by swollen rivers and dams during Limpopo’s rainy season.
The MEC for Co-operative Governance, Human Settlements & Traditional Affairs, Basikopo Makamu, issued a stern warning to residents after multiple videos and images surfaced online showing individuals attempting to cross overflowing streams and submerged bridges. Makamu condemned the behaviour, saying these actions put lives at unnecessary risk and make rescue efforts even more challenging. He stressed that losing lives to preventable incidents is unacceptable and urged the public to support government efforts by adhering to safety protocols.
As the province battles the impact of the storm, the Provincial Disaster Management Centre has been working alongside Public Works, Social Development, Basic Education, and several non-governmental organisations to provide aid. Authorities are repairing damaged infrastructure, assisting displaced residents, and working to restore livelihoods severely affected by the floods. Relief teams have been deployed across affected districts, responding to emergencies and assessing long-term recovery needs.
One of the immediate consequences of the dangerous weather conditions has been the temporary suspension of schooling in multiple districts. The Limpopo Department of Education halted academic activities on March 16 and 17 across flood-affected areas including Vhembe and Mopani, with Capricorn South and Waterberg also facing disruptions. Many of the affected regions are battling washed-away roads, compromised school buildings, and safety concerns that make it impossible for learners and teachers to travel safely. Parents have been strongly urged not to allow children to walk through flooded pathways or attempt crossing rivers on their way to school.
Makamu reiterated that community cooperation remains key in preventing further loss of life. He emphasised that residents must stay vigilant around rivers, dams, and vulnerable crossing points, particularly as the province braces for more heavy rainfall. He urged the public to treat all weather alerts seriously and take precautionary steps to protect their families.
With meteorologists forecasting continued downpours in the coming days, Limpopo’s emergency teams remain on high alert. Residents have been advised to monitor official weather updates, avoid unnecessary travel during storms, and report any missing persons or hazardous flooding to local authorities immediately.
As the search for the two missing men continues, the province is once again reminded of the devastating force of nature and the importance of collective responsibility in times of disaster.
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