News

On the afternoon and evening of Monday 17 October the Richtersveld was subjected to storms with high rainfall and strong winds. This extreme weather caused havoc in the area with communities, stock farmers and business’s suffering losses. Thankfully, as far as is currently known there was no loss of human life.

The Park has also been heavily impacted on with rainfall measured between 19mm and 69mm at various points. The heaviest rains were concentrated in the Western part of the Park on the Vandersterrberg, Kuboesberg, Numeesberg and Vyfsusters. The flash floods resulting from this rainfall have almost completely destroyed 40km of road leading to the Park, severely damaged the Helskloof Pass and impacted on all roads in centre of the Park due to the flooding of rivers and streams along which all tracks are routed.

Staff have been conducting damage assessments and as potential visitors were still arriving it was decided not to close the Park. Visitors who have not yet arrived at the Park will where possible be advised of conditions by SANParks reservations in Groenkloof.

The following roads are currently closed:

– Helskloof via R15, R14 to R7
– R6 to R11

Caution is advised on all other roads and you are requested to follow the new tracks which were established by rangers subsequent to the flooding. Tatasberg Wilderness Camp is currently not accessible and if you have booked this facility, please discuss alternatives with reception staff that will be updated on the situation.

For you own safety please try and travel in convoy with at least one other vehicle. If more rain falls, remain on high ground until potential flood danger has passed, as all roads and tracks follow riverbeds.

Enjoy your stay.
Andy Davies: Park Manager