Residents downstream from the Senteeko Dam in Mbombela, South africa, received an urgent evacuation order Tuesday following notable damage too the dam’s spillway, according to the Department of Water and Sanitation.
Department spokesperson Wally Ramokopa stated recent flooding compromised the spillway slab’s structural integrity. Engineers now assess a breach is possible, posing a considerable risk to communities below the dam.
The City of Mbombela is assisting with the evacuation. Authorities haven’t specified the exact area affected, but are urging anyone in the potential flood path to relocate instantly.
News Directory 3 confirmed the evacuation order with the Department of Water and Sanitation at 03:00 SAST on January 27, 2026. No further updates were available at that time. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available.
