On Wednesday (19/2), residents of Klerksdorp and surrounds — especially those near Schoonspruit — were advised of potential evacuations, as rising floodwaters caused significant road flooding. At the time, nine houses in Cuckoo Street, Irene Park, had been flooded.

The City of Matlosana media liaison Ntswaki Makgetha urged motorists to avoid driving through flooded areas and to exercise caution on slippery roads, particularly when driving uphill. She also emphasised the importance of switching on headlights to improve visibility and remaining alert to pedestrians and cyclists.

The flooding has affected key roads across the province, including the N18 outside Mahikeng towards Stilfontein, the R30 between Klerksdorp and Ventersdorp, the R503 at Hartbeesfontein, and the N4 near Dinokana. 

Other routes, such as the N14 between Sannieshof and Delareyville, the R52 between Koster and Magaliesburg, and the R30 between Derby and Ventersdorp, also faced significant disruptions. 

Traffic authorities from the Department of Community Safety and Transport Management have been deployed to assist motorists and manage the situation.

Residents and motorists affected by heavy flooding in North West. Photo supplied

Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements, and Traditional Affairs MEC Gaoage Oageng Molapisi said like other provinces, North West has been experiencing above-normal rainfall during this seasonal period. The regions most affected include Bojana, Ngaka Modiri Molema, and Dr Kenneth Kaunda. Several provincial roads have been heavily impacted, leading to closures and rerouting of traffic.

Road closures

The Mahikeng and Ditsobotla municipalities have been especially hard hit, with multiple roads rendered impassable and motorists stranded in flood-affected areas. On Tuesday, some roads in Mahikeng were closed, forcing drivers to take alternative routes. Furthermore, homes in Signalhill Village have been waterlogged, and mud houses in Bodibe Village have sustained partial damage, with some completely destroyed in Mareetsane.

Homes of North West residents flooded, possible evacuation following heavy rains. Photo supplied

In response, the National Department of Human Settlements has approved the establishment of temporary residence units for affected communities, including Bodibe. Additional units are being processed for the Bojanala District. 

Molapisi said municipalities continue to conduct needs assessments to determine the full extent of the damage, while provincial disaster management centres have been activated to provide support.

Molapisi urged residents and motorists to stay up to date with weather reports across various platforms, so they can remain informed and prepared.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi cg