Tropical Storm Eloise Makes a Splash in the Kruger National Park

The Kruger National Park is experiencing heavy flooding due to the powerful rains brought by Tropical Storm Eloise.

Some areas in the southern part of the park are now unreachable as several low-lying bridges, including the Lower Sabie and Skukuza, are completely submerged underwater.

“In the southern part of the Kruger National Park, the situation is getting worse as rivers are flowing vigorously. We advise everyone to be extremely cautious and stay indoors rather than going out on the roads. Avoid low-lying bridges and gravel roads. Do not enter roads with no entry signs,” urged SANParks in a statement on Sunday, January 24.

Here’s a look at the water level at the Lower Sabie bridge – it could overflow at any moment. pic.twitter.com/cLlCdNVIXe

Up in the north, there were camping spots like Sirheni, Shimuwini, and Bateleur Bushveld Camps, as well as Sable Hide. When the storm hit, visitors had to move to safety and were given a place to stay at Letaba, Mopani, Shingwedzi, and Punda Maria Rest Camps.

The latest news about the weather in Kruger National Park, because of Cyclone Eloise, is as follows:

• Most of the impact from Cyclone Eloise was felt in the northern part of KNP (Nxanetseni Region) on January 24th. This caused floods in the Luvuvhu-Mutale, Shingwedzi, and Letaba Rivers, leading to the closure of many gravel roads.
• As a precaution, Shingwedzi Rest Camp and the concessionaires in the Makuleke Contractual National Park were evacuated to Mopani Rest Camp on January 23rd, 2021.

As I sit here and reflect on the recent weather events in Kruger National Park, I can’t help but marvel at the power and unpredictability of nature. It’s astonishing how quickly things can change and how we must always be prepared for the unexpected.

Just a few nights ago, on January 24th, the Marula Region of the park was hit by heavy rainfall. The downpour was so intense that it caused significant flooding in the Sabie, Sand, and Crocodile Rivers. When something like this happens, a flood warning protocol is immediately put into action at the Skukuza and Lower Sabie Rest Camps. It’s a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of everyone in the area.

As I look out my window this morning, on January 25th, I can see that the water level in the Sabie River is rising steadily. The Disaster Management Team KNP is closely monitoring the situation, keeping a watchful eye on any potential issues. Thankfully, it seems that the floodwaters haven’t impacted any infrastructure within the rest camps or staff villages just yet. However, there are some low-lying access routes that are currently impassable due to the water.

Meanwhile, in the northern part of Kruger National Park, they are experiencing moderate rainfall. It’s a relief to know that the heavy rains seem to be concentrated in the southern region for now. It’s a delicate balance, walking the fine line between too much rain and not enough.

Nature has a way of teaching us important lessons, and one of them is the need to adapt and be prepared for whatever comes our way. These events remind us of the power and unpredictability of the natural world. It’s humbling to see how quickly things can change and how we must always be ready to adapt.

So, as we navigate through life, let’s remember to take nothing for granted and always be prepared for the unexpected. The weather is just one example of how quickly things can change, but it serves as a powerful reminder of our need to be flexible and adaptable.

In conclusion, Kruger National Park has experienced some intense weather events recently, with heavy rainfall causing flooding in certain areas. Fortunately, no significant damage has been done to infrastructure, but some access routes are currently impassable. The park’s Disaster Management Team is closely monitoring the situation and taking all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of all residents and visitors. Nature’s power and unpredictability are awe-inspiring, and it serves as a reminder to always be prepared for the unexpected in life.

I spoke with Ike Phaahla, who runs Communications and Marketing for Kruger National Park, about how the current conditions have impacted the animals that live there. According to Phaahla, animals have a natural instinct to move to higher ground even before a storm hits. Usually, nature takes care of itself, and the park has never had to rescue any animals. However, they do regular flyovers to check on the park’s infrastructure. If any animals are in distress, they will step in to help.

If you’re visiting the park and come across a displaced or distressed animal, make sure to contact the emergency number on your entry permit. It’s important to report any incidents so that the animals can get the help they need.

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