Several damaged bridges and many roads in Vhembe's rural areas have had to be closed since Friday, 10 February, because of the heavy rain that fell over the area.
Residents who live in slippery mountain areas had to park their vehicles near the main tar roads because they were unable to reach their homes by car. The affected areas include Makwarani, Maraxwe, Vhutalu, Tshipako, Tshiwani, Tshidzivhe, Tshilungwi, Mudzidzi, Tshakhuma and others.
Motorists who use the main road from the mentioned areas had to drive with great caution as parts of the roads were badly damaged by the rains. Trees were uprooted in some of the hilly areas along the roads.
Learners from Tswinga and Muledane were forced to cross the still-flooding Dzindi River on foot. Many parents accompanied their children to help them cross the river, out of fear that they might be swept away by the current. "The water was above our knees, and we just clung to each other's hands," said one of the learners, Takalani Mushiana.
The spokesperson for the Vhembe District Municipality, Mr Matodzi Ralushai, said that all four municipalities under Vhembe had been greatly affected by the rains so far. Some areas have no water as pipes were washed away. He said that the affected communities were now forced to use alternative roads to get to work or school and run daily errands.
"Most of the bridges have structural problems, while others are under water. We have sent out a disaster team, and we are visiting the different areas affected by the floods. We are pleading with parents to warn their children not to swim in the dams or play near the rivers, because there are a lot of crocodiles," said Ralushai.
He warned residents who live close to rivers and streams to evacuate to a safer place or higher spot when the water level rises. "When you cross a flowing river where water reaches above your ankles, turn back and use an alternative route. Never try to walk, swim or drive in swift-flowing water as it can sweep you off your feet. Do not drive over a low-water bridge if the water is flowing strongly across it," he cautioned.