South Africa has closed Kruger National Park due to catastrophic flooding triggered by unprecedented rainfall, which has resulted in at least 42 fatalities across the country. The disaster has disrupted tourism, infrastructure, and regional supply chains.
- 42 confirmed fatalities reported in South Africa due to floods in January 2026
- Kruger National Park closed indefinitely due to flood damage and safety concerns
- Rainfall exceeded 300% of seasonal average in multiple regions
- R1.2 billion ($63 million) allocated for emergency relief and recovery
- Tourism revenue projected to fall 65% in February 2026
- Over 7,000 jobs directly impacted by park closure
Authorities in South Africa have shut down Kruger National Park, one of the country’s most iconic wildlife reserves, following severe flooding that began in late December 2025 and intensified through January 2026. The deluge, fueled by persistent low-pressure systems over southern Africa, caused rivers such as the Crocodile River and Limpopo to overflow, submerging roads, campsites, and critical park infrastructure. Emergency response teams confirmed 42 deaths across Mpumalanga, Limpopo, and KwaZulu-Natal provinces, with dozens more missing or displaced. The flood crisis coincided with the peak of the rainy season in southern Africa, a period typically marked by increased precipitation from November to February. In the past three weeks alone, some areas recorded cumulative rainfall exceeding 300% above seasonal averages. Weather models indicate this was the most intense rainfall event in the region since 2013, with localized downpours reaching up to 280 millimeters in a single 24-hour period. Tourism revenues are expected to decline sharply in the first quarter of 2026, with Kruger National Park projecting a 65% drop in visitor arrivals during February. The closure affects over 7,000 direct jobs linked to safari operations, accommodation services, and guided tours. Additionally, transport disruptions have delayed agricultural exports from northern provinces, including maize and cotton shipments bound for ports in Durban and Richards Bay. Local governments have activated emergency funds totaling R1.2 billion ($63 million) to support rescue operations, temporary shelter, and infrastructure repair. The national government is assessing long-term resilience measures, including river channel improvements and early warning system upgrades.