JOHANNESBURG - Severe flooding and extreme weather have prompted the government to declare a national disaster.
Cooperative Governance Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa says the move follows extensive damage in Limpopo, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape and North West.
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At least 20 people were killed in Mpumalanga alone.
The National Disaster Management Centre will lead relief efforts, with all government departments mobilised to support affected areas.
Hlabisa has praised first responders, humanitarian groups and local communities.
He is also urging residents to remain vigilant as rains continue.