Kruger Park Chaos: Floods Isolate Iconic Reserve, Leaving Only One Exit

Published 19 hours ago2 minute read
Precious Eseaye
Precious Eseaye
Kruger Park Chaos: Floods Isolate Iconic Reserve, Leaving Only One Exit

Kruger National Park is currently facing severe disruptions due to persistent heavy rainfall, which has led to blocked travel routes, damaged roads, and restricted access between various camps within the park. South African National Parks (SANParks) has issued urgent warnings to visitors, specifically those accommodated at Lower Sabie and Crocodile Bridge rest camps, indicating that they are presently cut off from reaching the Skukuza area due to the hazardous conditions.

SANParks spokesperson Rey Thakhuli confirmed that rising water levels have rendered several roads unsafe for travel, with the expectation of more rainfall in the coming days. Weather experts from Vox Weather have reported a substantial 300 millimetres of rain over the eastern escarpment in the past three days. The forecast projects the heaviest rain to fall over Limpopo from Tuesday to Wednesday, subsequently moving into Mpumalanga from Thursday to Friday, which could further intensify the already critical situation within the park.

Thakhuli emphasized the paramount importance of visitor safety, urging all guests to exercise extreme caution and meticulously follow instructions provided by park officials at all times. A significant concern highlighted by SANParks is the park's sole exit route, which crosses the Crocodile River via a bridge. Officials have warned that if river levels continue their upward trend, this crucial bridge could become unsafe or even impassable, potentially leading to visitors being temporarily stranded inside the park until water levels recede to safe levels.

In response to these conditions, guests have been strongly advised to modify their travel itineraries and postpone any planned movements between camps to mitigate risks. SANParks has proactively contacted visitors with upcoming bookings, particularly those intending to enter through affected gates or stay at the impacted camps. These individuals have been counselled to reschedule their visits until the weather conditions within the park improve and safety can be assured. Throughout this challenging period, park officials reiterate that ensuring the safety of all visitors remains their absolute highest priority.

Loading...
Loading...
Loading...

You may also like...