By JP Louw
SANParks Head of Communications and Spokesperson
Heavy rains, strong winds, and flooding have caused widespread disruption across the Garden Route National Park.
In the Wilderness Section, roads remain eroded and inaccessible in several areas, while mudslides and fallen trees continue to block access.
Water levels are dropping but remain high in parts of Swartvlei.
Recreational activities and hiking trails remain closed.
Accommodation facilities have not been affected, and no cancellations have been reported.
The Knysna Section experienced extreme rainfall of 378 mm, resulting in significant infrastructure challenges.
Roads, including Komsepad and Kranshoek, remain blocked by fallen trees and require extensive clearing operations.
The R339 is currently only accessible to 4×4 vehicles.
Power outages and limited network coverage persist.
The Thesen Island Regional Office and Front Office are open.
One vessel was destabilised but poses no environmental risk.
Diepwalle campsite and trails remain closed.
Teams are currently clearing large floating debris from the Knysna Estuary.
Navigational channel markers have also been displaced in the Estuary.
As a precaution, skippers are advised to heed caution when navigating the Estuary.
In the Tsitsikamma Section, conditions have improved as rainfall and strong winds have subsided.
Water levels at the Groot River in Nature’s Valley have dropped, and debris clearing at the bridge is underway.
The temporary restaurant structure at the Storms River Mouth Rest Camp is temporarily closed after being covered by foam caused by flooding conditions.
All hiking trails and water-based activities remain suspended.
Nature’s Valley Camp in the Tsitsikamma Section of the Garden Route National Park remains closed while teams assess the extent of the damage and continue with mop-up operations.
SANParks teams and stakeholders are working tirelessly to restore access, repair infrastructure damage, and ensure the safety of staff, visitors, and neighbouring communities across the Garden Route National Park.
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