The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park experienced exceptional rainfall over the past weekend, with Nossob Rest Camp recording an impressive 109mm. This represents an unusual occurrence for this part of the Kalahari, where such totals are typically accumulated over a month rather than just two days.
Genevieve Maasdorp, regional communications manager for the Arid Region of South African National Parks (SANParks), said the rest of the park also received significant rainfall.
Visitors can soon expect to see the red Kalahari sands transform into a lush green landscape – a truly remarkable sight in this arid region. Whilst the rainfall brought much-needed relief to the environment, minor storm-related damage was reported at Nossob Rest Camp, including small damage to guest tents and several fallen trees. Some internal park roads also sustained minor damage.
Visitors are therefore advised to use high ground clearance or 4×4 vehicles until water levels subside and necessary maintenance is completed.
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“Park management would like to assure visitors that repair and maintenance work is already underway, and all efforts are being made to ensure guests’ safety and comfort,” Maasdorp said.
Visitors can look forward to experiencing the Kalahari in all its rejuvenated splendour—a rare and breathtaking transformation made possible by the weekend’s rains.
Provincial rainfall brings jubilation
Late last week and during the past weekend, scattered thunderstorms fell across large parts of the country, including the Northern Cape.
In some parts of the province, there were rumbling promises from threatening grey-blue clouds without much rain falling. In other areas, floods, hail and rainfall rates much higher than usual for this time of year were recorded.
From Victoria West, a resident reported 26mm of rain in two days, whilst Middelpos Upington recorded 32mm, Postmasburg 22mm and Kakamas 50mm on Friday night alone. One resident said: “I am doing well, because the earth and birds rejoice after the rain.”
On Thursday afternoon, 6 November, the Kuruman branch meeting of the Women’s Agriculture Society (VLV) was cancelled due to massive hail and rainstorms. More than 100mm of rain was measured for the day, with reports of flooded houses and collapsed garden walls.
Weather enthusiasts captured dramatic cloud formations across the region, showcasing the remarkable atmospheric conditions.
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