According to Associate Professor of Physical Geography at the University of Mpumalanga (UMP), Professor Wisemen Chingombe, the flooding is the result of a persistent low-pressure cell that had been positioned over the Indian Ocean for an extended period and has now shifted westwards into southern Africa.
“The heavy rainfall that Mpumalanga and Limpopo experienced were linked to a low-pressure system that lingered over the Indian Ocean for some time before moving inland,” explained Professor Chingombe. “This shift resulted in prolonged and intense rainfall across large parts of the region.”
Authorities temporarily closed the Kruger National Park after several rivers burst their banks, submerging bridges and access roads. Park officials cautioned nearby communities to remain vigilant, particularly as crocodiles and other wildlife may be swept beyond their usual habitats into human settlements.
Addressing speculation that the floods may be linked to a tropical storm or cyclone, Professor Chingombe said, “The heavy rains in the Kruger National Park are not due to a cyclone or tropical storm. Most of the rain originated from Mozambique, with floodwaters accumulating in the low-lying areas of Mpumalanga and Limpopo.”
Wildlife displacement and ecological consequences
While images of hippos swimming among treetops and fast-flowing rivers overtopping roads have fuelled anxiety, Professor Chingombe explains that wildlife is often more resilient to flooding than people may assume.
“Animals, just like humans, have homes and habitats and can sense when they need to move to higher ground,” he said. "In most cases, they instinctively migrate to safer areas. However, if floodwaters rise rapidly and move at a strong pace, they can catch up with wildlife and potentially sweep some animals away.”
He added that younger and older animals are particularly vulnerable during extreme flood events. “Very young animals lack the strength and experience to escape strong currents, while older animals may not be agile enough to move quickly to safety. These groups are therefore at greater risk during severe flooding.”
Beyond the immediate physical danger, Professor Chingombe noted that floods can also have psychological and behavioural effects on animals. “When animals are forced to move abruptly from their familiar habitats, they can become traumatised and disoriented. This displacement increases the likelihood of wildlife wandering into human settlements, which can be dangerous and life-threatening for both people and animals.”
Professor Chingombe warned members of the public to stay away from strong-flowing rivers and flooded areas. “People should avoid rivers during this period and remain alert, particularly in low-lying areas. Floodwaters can be extremely powerful and unpredictable.”
From an environmental perspective, he said floods are both destructive and constructive. “Many trees are uprooted during floods, which weakens soil stability and leads to land degradation,” he explained. “However, flooding also plays a natural ecological role.”
He pointed out that floods can contribute to ecosystem renewal. “When wildlife is swept away or displaced, it creates opportunities for younger animals to move into new habitats. Floodwaters also transport seeds over long distances, which increases seed distribution and supports vegetation growth. This often results in lush, green landscapes that benefit herbivores.”
In conclusion, Professor Chingombe mentions that, while flooding presents serious short-term risks to wildlife, it is also part of a broader natural process through which ecosystems adapt, recover and regenerate over time.
This article was first published in the Lowvelder Newspaper. Follow the link to read more:
https://www.citizen.co.za/lowvelder/news-headlines/local-news/2026/01/17/mpumalanga-professor-explains-flood-impact-on-kruger-park/
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