A 19-year-old woman was rescued after being swept downstream while attempting to cross an overflowing bridge near Phiva on Friday, January 10.

Provincial police spokesperson Brigadier Donald Mdhluli stated that the woman was stranded for about three hours on an island in the river before being saved. “She was attempting to cross the overflowing bridge when she was washed away. Fortunately, she managed to swim to safety on a small island in the middle of the river,” said Mdhluli.

Witnesses quickly alerted authorities, prompting a multi-agency response involving the SAPS Search and Rescue Unit, disaster management teams, SARZA Lowveld, and other emergency personnel.

SARZA initially assessed the scene but determined that the fast-flowing water made a rope rescue unsafe. A police helicopter from Pretoria was brought in to hoist the woman to safety.

Emergency medical services treated the teenager, who was later reunited with her relieved family.

The incident highlights the dangers of crossing flooded bridges and serves as a reminder to exercise caution during heavy rains.