Residents of South Africa’s Limpopo province hold breath amid fears of repeat floods

Tshakhuma, a town in South Africa's Limpopo province, is on edge as residents brace for the possibility of another devastating flood. Divhani Rashaka, a long-time resident of the area, recalls experiencing several floods during his 26 years living in the Tshakhuma region. The river that runs just a few meters from his home is now overgrown with grass and bushes, and the channels carved by the January floods remain as evidence of its destructive power.

Rashaka has taken small steps to protect his property, placing stones along the channels to slow or redirect the water if heavy rains return. Neighbors have also cleared the grass to allow water to flow more easily. However, Rashaka acknowledges that he lacks a formal plan for safeguarding his home, should another flood occur. The January floods impacted numerous communities across Limpopo, resulting in loss of life, damage to homes and infrastructure, and disruptions to schooling and access to certain areas.

Tshakhuma was among the hardest hit, with 21 families forced to relocate to temporary accommodations at a lodge in Nkuna village, approximately 20 kilometers away, while temporary residential units were being prepared. If another flood were to strike, Rashaka said he would have to rely on the support of his community. "I can seek shelter from my...

The article, originally published by Mongabay, highlights the ongoing threat of floods in South Africa's Limpopo province and the resilience of its residents in the face of adversity.