20/01/2026
DMISA Statement on the Classification and Declaration of National Disasters: Flooding and Fires
The Disaster Management Institute of Southern Africa (DMISA) supports the classification and declaration of the current severe flooding and widespread fires as disasters in terms of the Disaster Management Act, 2002 (Act No. 57 of 2002). Given the multi-provincial scale, severity, and cumulative impacts of these events, DMISA recognises that the prevailing conditions meet the criteria for national disaster classification, necessitating enhanced national coordination, mobilisation of resources, and intergovernmental support.
DMISA notes with serious concern the extensive flooding resulting from persistent heavy rainfall affecting multiple provinces, including Limpopo, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal, the Eastern Cape, the North West, and other parts of the country. The impacts include widespread damage to infrastructure, loss of property, displacement of communities, and disruption of essential services. The geographic spread and magnitude of these impacts exceed the response capacity of individual municipalities and provinces, thereby justifying national oversight and intervention.
In line with the national disaster classification framework, DMISA commends the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC), provincial disaster management centres, and municipal structures for activating coordinated response mechanisms across all spheres of government. DMISA supports the implementation of nationally coordinated measures, including evacuations, humanitarian relief, temporary shelter provision, restoration of critical infrastructure, and the mobilisation of disaster relief funding mechanisms.
DMISA further expresses its support for the national and provincial response to significant wildfires affecting the Western Cape and Eastern Cape. These fires pose serious threats to human life, livelihoods, biodiversity, and economic activity. DMISA acknowledges the sustained efforts of firefighters, disaster management practitioners, volunteers, and supporting agencies operating under hazardous conditions to contain the fires and protect affected communities.
Beyond South Africa’s borders, DMISA extends its solidarity to the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region, particularly Mozambique, where severe weather has resulted in widespread flooding and submerged households. DMISA recognises the transboundary nature of climate-related disasters and calls upon the international and humanitarian community to strengthen support to affected countries and communities across the region.
DMISA’s Commitment
As a professional body representing disaster management practitioners, DMISA affirms its full support for the nationally coordinated disaster response, recovery, and rehabilitation measures enabled through the classification of these events as national disasters. DMISA remains committed to advancing professional standards, evidence-based practice, and strengthened intergovernmental coordination to enhance disaster resilience and preparedness.
DMISA urges all residents in affected areas to comply with official warnings and directives, remain vigilant, and prioritise safety. Communities are encouraged to rely on verified communication channels and to support vulnerable individuals and households during this critical period.
DMISA extends its deepest sympathies to all individuals, families, and communities affected by the floods and fires and reaffirms its commitment to supporting the disaster risk management systems of South Africa and Mozambique during this period of national and regional emergency.
Ms Lebogang Mosotho-Segage
President: Disaster Management Institute of Southern Africa
