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The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has carried out a major rescue operation in Limpopo after severe flooding left communities stranded and in danger following weeks of heavy rainfall.
On Wednesday night, 14 January 2026, the SANDF deployed helicopters from the South African Air Force’s 17 and 19 Squadrons to assist residents affected by rising water levels across the province. The operation, coordinated from the Air Force Command Post, continued into the early hours of Thursday, 15 January.
Three helicopters based in Pretoria and Hoedspruit were dispatched to flood-affected areas, with crews flying in extremely poor weather conditions between 23:00 and 02:00 to save lives.
One of the key rescue missions took place in Mbaula Village outside Giyani, where a family was evacuated after being cut off by floodwaters. Community members also assisted by guiding aircrews to people trapped on rooftops and in high-lying areas. In a dramatic rescue, one family member was hoisted to safety after being stranded in a tree along the swollen Olifants River.
SANDF officials confirmed that a local chief was rescued from the roof of his house, while several others were evacuated from trees as floodwaters continued to rise. Those in need of medical care were airlifted to Maphutha Hospital near Phalaborwa.
In a separate operation, an Oryx helicopter was deployed to rescue members of the Border Management Authority and the South African Police Service who were surrounded by water at the Phafuri Port of Entry.
An Agusta A109 helicopter was also used to evacuate 18 people from the flooded Khambaku Lodge outside Phalaborwa, transporting them to places of safety.
The SANDF has commended the bravery and dedication of its aircrews, who continue to assist affected communities as flooding remains a serious threat in parts of Limpopo. Authorities have urged residents in low-lying areas to remain alert and follow official warnings as weather conditions continue to be monitored.
