Download PDFThe residents of Bronville in Welkom, Free State, suffered greatly due to heavy rainfall and flooding. Many families became homeless, faced challenges in finding temporary shelter, and struggled to rebuild their lives. Streets were filled with water, and some people lost their loved ones. The destruction of infrastructure, such as roads and bridges, also hindered economic development. Bridges were submerged, and children could not even cross them.
Petunia Oliphant, aged 38, a resident of Mandela Park, says that the trauma of experiencing a flood can have a lasting impact on individuals and families, including stress and depression. She adds that it was heartbreaking to see young children playing in the dirty water instead of going to school.
Floods can disrupt businesses, agriculture, and economic activities, leading to financial hardship for individuals and communities. They also destroy schools, disrupting children’s education and potentially causing long-term consequences. As the frequency and severity of floods continue to increase due to climate change, it is essential to prioritise flood resilience, strengthen infrastructure, and adapt to the changing climate.
Angela Gwente, aged 19, a resident of Welkom, says that communities can reduce flooding by fixing drains, maintaining infrastructure, educating residents, promoting strong construction, and working together to minimise damage and stay safe.
In conclusion, floods can be devastating, but with alertness and proactive measures, we can reduce their impact and build more resilient communities.
This article was submitted on 03 July 2025. You may republish this article, so long as you credit the authors and Karibu! Online (www.Karibu.org.za), and do not change the text. Please include a link back to the original article.
