The Limpopo Department of Education has temporarily suspended schooling for two days in several districts severely affected by persistent heavy rainfall and the risk of flash floods. The closure, announced for Thursday and Friday, impacts schools in the Vhembe, Mopani, and Sekhukhune districts. The department cited the safety of learners and staff as the primary reason for the precautionary measure.
Concurrently, there have been reports of criminal elements taking advantage of the situation. Thieves have targeted flood-affected schools, stealing essential equipment and infrastructure. This includes the theft of solar panels, electrical cables, and computer equipment from schools that were already compromised by the severe weather, compounding the damage and hindering recovery efforts.
Provincial education spokesperson Tidimalo Chuene confirmed the incidents, stating that the department is working with law enforcement to secure the properties. The South African Weather Service had issued warnings for disruptive rain leading to flooding in the region, which prompted the initial closures. The department has advised parents and guardians to monitor official channels for updates on when schools will safely reopen.
