Dramatic rescue of Stellenbosch student stranded overnight by flash flooding
Stellenbosch University student airlifted to safety after spending nearly 24 hours stranded by a swollen river in Du Toitskloof following flash flooding.
Image: WSAR/ David Nel
A Stellenbosch University student was airlifted to safety on Monday after being stranded overnight by a swollen river in Du Toitskloof, following heavy rainfall that triggered flash flooding.
The student was part of a group of four hiking along the Elandspad River on Sunday when conditions deteriorated. As they attempted to return, the river had risen sharply due to runoff, turning a routine crossing into a fast-moving current.
Three hikers crossed before the river became impassable. They moved to higher ground to get cellular reception and called for help, leaving their companion on the opposite bank.
Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR), along with CapeNature and SAPS Search and Rescue, responded. Teams found sections of the trail submerged and access routes cut off by the current.
Rescuers reached the opposite bank but did not attempt a crossing due to the strength of the water and failing light, opting instead to monitor the situation overnight.
A team, including a Western Cape Government Health and Wellness EMS medic, remained on site, maintaining visual contact with the stranded hiker.
By early Monday, water levels had dropped enough for rescuers to establish a rope line and send supplies, including dry clothing, food and a two-way radio.
“That early morning breakthrough, getting vital supplies and communication across the river, was a turning point,” said WSAR spokesperson David Nel.
“It stabilised a rapidly evolving situation and gave the patient renewed reassurance that help was not only close, but actively closing in.”
A Western Cape Government Health and Wellness EMS and Air Mercy Service helicopter was then deployed. A rescuer was lowered to secure the student, who was airlifted to a landing zone at Du Kloof Lodge.
He was transported by ambulance to hospital for assessment. The operation concluded at about 12pm on Monday, WSAR said.
Nel said rivers could become dangerous within minutes after rainfall.
“We cannot stress this enough, rivers are dynamic systems. What looks manageable in the morning can become life-threatening within minutes after rainfall. Distance, depth, and speed are all extremely deceptive in moving water,” he said.