Weather Alert: U.S. Consulate General Johannesburg, South Africa (January 15, 2026)
Location: Kruger National Park and Surrounding Areas
Event: According to the South African Weather Service, there are high levels of flooding in and around Kruger National Park. Heavy rainfall has led to multiple closures and evacuations throughout Kruger, with rising rivers isolating large areas of the reserve. Forecasts report rainfall is likely to continue until at least January 19.
Due to persistent and heavy rainfall affecting the Limpopo and Mpumalanga Provinces, the South African National Parks Service is not allowing day visitors into Kruger National Park until conditions improve. Additionally, Airlink Airlines has suspended all flights entering and departing Hoedspruit Airport in Limpopo due to heavy flooding.
For updates and assistance, contact South African National Parks’ 24-hour emergency call center at +27(0)13 735 4363, or via WhatsApp at +27(0)76 801 9679.
Actions to Take:
· Monitor local media for updates
· Avoid affected areas (see map below).
· Seek secure shelter.
· Do not walk, swim, or drive through flood waters.
· Move to higher ground or higher floors to avoid rising waters.
· Remain current on weather, road, and water conditions through reliable news sources such as the South African Weather Service (https://www.weathersa.co.za/).
· Visit Ready.gov for tips on emergency preparedness.
Assistance:
· U.S. Consulate General Johannesburg
011-290-3000
ACSJohannesburg@state.gov
https://za.usembassy.gov/johannesburg-u-s-consulate/
· Contact the State Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs
1-888-407-4747 toll-free from the United States and Canada
1-202-501-4444 from other countries or follow on X and Facebook.
· South Africa Destination Information Page
· Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates.
· Visit Ready.Gov for information on emergency preparedness.
