KLEIN KAROO NEWS - As widespread attention remains focused on severe rainfall in the Swartberg region and the closure of Meiringspoort and the Swartberg Pass, concerns are also growing for residents and visitors stranded deep within Gamkaskloof, better known as “Die Hel”.

According to Kevin van Blerk a family friend of, residents Pieter Joubert and Marinette Joubert, the couple, together with their staff and 11 guests, have been left stranded following days of heavy rainfall and widespread flooding in the isolated valley.

Van Blerk said several guests attempted to leave the valley on 7 May but were forced to turn back after encountering flooded rivers along the route. While returning to Fontein Guest Farm, the group reportedly became trapped again when another swollen river blocked their path.

Fortunately, Pieter Joubert was aware that the group had become stranded on the opposite side of the river and managed to establish communication with them by rigging a rope across the flooded waterway.

One vehicle was stranded in a river crossing and still needs to be recovered.

This image shows how messages, food, and water are being sent to guests stranded between two flooded rivers. Photo supplied

“We can confirm that all guests are safe, sheltered from the rain, and in good health,” Van Blerk said.

The stranded visitors have reportedly been supplied with food, drinks, and dry blankets while they wait for weather conditions and river levels to improve.

At this stage, the condition of the remaining road network in the valley, including the Boplaas section, remains unclear. Once water levels recede sufficiently, Joubert plans to assess the extent of the damage.

Trees blocking the roads after the flood damage. 

The recovery operation is expected to be extremely difficult. Fallen trees blocking the roads will need to be cut and removed manually, while damaged sections of roadway may have to be repaired by hand using rocks, as no heavy machinery is currently available inside the valley.

Despite the difficult conditions, communication with the families and friends of the stranded guests has remained ongoing.

Authorities and local coordinators have confirmed that a helicopter rescue operation is expected to take place on Saturday, 9 May, to evacuate the stranded guests from Gamkaskloof.

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