Relentless floods in northeastern South Africa have claimed more lives, severed communities, and swallowed vast landscapes in a widening regional disaster.
Authorities on Friday recovered two more bodies in Limpopo province, lifting the local death toll to eleven since heavy rains began.
Officials say at least thirty people have died across the region since late last year, as storms continue to batter vulnerable communities.
Premier Phophi Ramathuba described devastation to homes, infrastructure, and families, warning that the human cost cannot be overstated.
She said hundreds of schools failed to open this term, while damaged water and power networks left towns struggling.
Neighbouring Mpumalanga province has reported nineteen deaths since November, underscoring the growing scale of the tragedy.
The floods also forced Kruger National Park to suspend day visits and airlift guests and staff to safety.
Park officials said only essential staff are allowed inside, after swirling waters cut roads and closed multiple camps.
Video released by SANParks showed brown floodwaters swallowing plains, with treetops piercing a moving, muddy sea.
Across the border in Mozambique, weeks of rain have pushed rivers beyond their limits and into low-lying settlements.
Authorities urged communities near Maputo to evacuate, as official figures confirmed at least eight deaths since December.
President Daniel Chapo said rescue operations and food distribution are underway, though the situation remains under assessment.
In Boane district, residents waded through deep water, while emergency teams struggled to move trucks across submerged roads.
Some women crossed on makeshift boats to buy supplies, paying dearly for a dangerous journey through rushing currents.
Local officials said transport shortages have left many families stranded, with rising water cutting remaining land routes.
Schools have been designated as shelters, as authorities brace for further rain and an uncertain, waterlogged future.