Update on severe weather impact in Garden Route National Park
Heavy rainfall and flooding continue to impact large parts of Garden Route National Park, with several roads and hiking trails closed.
Heavy rainfall and flooding continue to impact large parts of Garden Route National Park, with several roads, hiking trails and recreational areas remaining closed as mop-up operations continue across the region.
In the Wilderness section, authorities reported that a number of roads remain eroded and inaccessible due to mudslides and fallen trees.
Although water levels in parts of Swartvlei have started to subside, they remain high in some areas.
Hiking trails and recreational activities remain suspended until further notice.
Hardest hit
Officials confirmed that accommodation establishments in the area have not been affected and no booking cancellations have been reported.
The Knysna section was among the hardest hit after recording an extreme 378mm of rainfall, causing widespread infrastructure damage and major access challenges.
Roads including Komsepad and Kranshoek remain blocked by fallen trees, while the R339 is currently only accessible to 4×4 vehicles. Power outages and limited cellphone network coverage are also affecting some areas.
Authorities said the Thesen Island Regional Office and Front Office remain operational despite the severe conditions.
Cleanup teams are also working to remove large floating debris from the Knysna Estuary after several navigational channel markers were displaced during the flooding. Skippers have been urged to exercise caution when navigating the estuary.
One vessel was destabilised during the storm, although officials confirmed it poses no environmental threat.
Water levels have dropped
In the Tsitsikamma section, conditions have gradually improved after rainfall and strong winds subsided.
Water levels at the Groot River in Nature’s Valley have dropped, while teams continue clearing debris at the bridge.
The temporary restaurant structure at Storms River Mouth Rest Camp has been temporarily closed after floodwaters and foam inundated the area.
All hiking trails and water-based activities across the section remain suspended as safety assessments continue.
Nature’s Valley Camp also remains closed while damage assessments and cleanup operations are underway.
SANParks said teams and stakeholders are continuing efforts to restore access, repair damaged infrastructure and ensure the safety of visitors, staff and surrounding communities.
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