The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a Red Level 10 Warning for Disruptive Rainfall for parts of Limpopo and Mpumalanga, warning that the risk of severe flooding remains critically high over the next 48 hours.

According to SAWS, the warning follows several days of intense rainfall that has already saturated catchment areas, rivers and dams. With further heavy rain expected, authorities say the likelihood of widespread flooding has increased significantly, posing a serious threat to lives, livelihoods and infrastructure.

SAWS cautions that potential impacts may include fast-flowing rivers and streams that could endanger lives, flooding of roads, bridges and low-lying crossings, and extensive damage to settlements, property and critical infrastructure. Communities may also face displacement, while essential services such as electricity, water supply and transport could be severely disrupted.

Forecast guidance indicates that an additional 100 to 200 millimetres of rainfall may fall over parts of Limpopo and Mpumalanga within the next 24 to 48 hours. Areas expected to be most affected include Maruleng and Ba-Phalaborwa Local Municipalities, Nkomazi Local Municipality, the City of Mbombela, Bushbuckridge Local Municipality, Greater Giyani, Greater Tzaneen, Greater Letaba and Collins Chabane.

The Red Level 10 Warning will remain in effect for as long as conditions continue to pose a severe risk. Residents in affected areas are urged to remain vigilant, avoid travelling through flooded roads or bridges, and follow guidance from local authorities and disaster management teams.

SAWS has advised communities to stay informed through official weather updates and emergency alerts as the situation continues to develop.