Mpumalanga Authorities
By Lerato Mpembe
Mpumalanga authorities have issued a stern warning to the public to avoid crossing overflowing streams and rivers following the disappearance of a 27-year-old woman and a 19-year-old man in Mkhondo on Monday, 6 January 2025. The two are suspected to have been swept away by the Assegaai River, which burst its banks after heavy rains.
Police divers are actively searching for the missing individuals. Provincial police spokesperson Donald Mdhluli stated, “Yesterday, the operation had to be called off after our SAPS diving unit went to the area. So, they’re still searching; they haven’t been found. We urge members of the public to refrain from these rivers because we had a lot of rain so that we don’t have any incidents where people will go missing or they will drown.”
Historical Context of Flood-Related Incidents in Mpumalanga
Mpumalanga has a history of flood-related incidents, often resulting in fatalities. In February 2021, heavy rains claimed the lives of eight people, with five others reported missing. The provincial Department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) cautioned communities in flood-prone areas to move to safer locations, emphasizing the dangers of crossing swollen rivers and dams. COGTA MEC Mandla Msibi stated, “We are expecting a rising level of water due to the predicted rain over the weekend, and this is a serious threat with a greater possibility of human tragedies.” 
In January 2021, five drownings were reported in the province over ten days, including two children. These incidents prompted authorities to warn the public to stay away from rivers and dams. Police spokesperson Brigadier Leonard Hlathi urged caution around waterways, noting that the beginning of summer had seen a number of drownings in different parts of the province.
🔴Central News Weekly Edition 087🔴 Download the Latest Edition | Top Story: “Building ‘The Ngwathe We Want’:
Dr Mothamaha Drives Cost-Effective
Solutions with New Fleet Acquisitions”
Download Here:
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube