On Tuesday 15 February 2021, Afriski was hit by its most brutal flood with 60mm of rain in 30 minutes (equivalent to one tenth of Johannesburg’s annual rainfall in 30 minutes). This is the first time that flooding has occurred since the resort opened its doors in 2000. The damage to internal roads, infrastructure and buildings is extensive.
Thankfully no lives were lost, with staff and guests remaining safe, yet the destruction caused by the floods will amount to millions of rands.
Afriski has recorded unprecedented levels of rainfall in the Maluti Mountains of over 800mm since December 2020, while recording only 400mm the previous year. Although the floods have come as a shock, rain can be scarce in this area and remains vital for the entire operation.
“Despite the pandemic and the closed borders, Afriski has made every successful effort to remain open during the last year, and this is not a simple undertaking when it comes to the winter season and providing snow in Africa. Afriski remains positive and hopeful that we will continue to welcome back our loyal guests this year” Peter Peyper, Managing Director.
It is no secret that the Tourism industry has been shattered by the Covid-19 pandemic. Afriski Mountain Resort in Lesotho, like so many others, has not escaped unscathed, and has in fact had the additional obstacle of border closures and travel restrictions in both Lesotho and South Africa for a year now.
