Limpopo in Crisis: Premier Ramathuba Sounds Alarm as Floods W ravage Province, 11 Lives Lost

Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba with her cabinet Coghta MEC Basikopo Makamu and Public Works, Roads and Infrastructure MEC Tonny Rachoene.

By Mpho Dube — Editor-in-Chief, The Azanian_

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Limpopo, South Africa - Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba has declared a state of disaster in the province as devastating floods continue to ravage communities, leaving a trail of destruction and claiming 11 lives.

Addressing the media, Premier Ramathuba stated that the calamity began on December 25, 2025, in the Waterberg and Capricorn Districts, escalating with heavy rains affecting Vhembe, Mopani, and Sekhukhune Districts.

The floods have caused significant damage, including destruction of roads, bridges, water and electricity infrastructure, schools, and health facilities, resulting in displacement of families. "The scale of the damage is substantial and will require significant resources to address," Premier Ramathuba emphasized.

The Premier expressed condolences to the affected families and announced an emergency meeting to assess the damage, with provisional estimates exceeding R4 billion. Critical damage has been reported to several national roads, including the R527, R40, R71, R36, R578, R526, R529, and R524, as well as district and local municipality roads.

Joining Premier Ramathuba at the media briefing were Coghta MEC Basikopo Makamu and Public Works, Roads and Infrastructure MEC Tonny Rachoene, who pledged their departments' support in responding to the disaster. "We are working tirelessly to restore critical infrastructure and provide assistance to affected communities," MEC Makamu said.

MEC Rachoene added, "Our teams are on the ground assessing the damage and working to clear roads and restore access to isolated communities. We will do everything in our power to support the people of Limpopo during this difficult time."

The Premier urged residents to exercise caution and avoid traveling to affected areas unless absolutely necessary. "We appeal to the public to work with us and follow safety guidelines to prevent further loss of life and property," she said.

As the province grapples with the aftermath of the floods, the government is working to provide support to affected communities. The Azanian will continue to provide updates on the situation and the government's response.