Overview
- The park authority called the closure a precaution, with some northern sections sealed off and at least one camp evacuated.
- Rescuers airlifted 27 people who were on a walking rhino safari after rising waters cut off escape routes.
- Civil protection officials reported 19 deaths in South Africa, while media in Zimbabwe cited about 70 fatalities and more than 1,000 families displaced.
- Authorities warned residents that crocodiles and hippos could be swept into neighborhoods, especially in Limpopo province.
- Meteorologists forecast further heavy rain through the weekend, heightening concerns over blocked roads, damaged bridges, and isolated communities.