In February 2023, the Vaal River in South Africa overflowed after the Vaal Dam surpassed its capacity, leading to the opening of 12 sluice gates. Heavy rains had already saturated the ground, making the situation dire as floodwaters spread through Gauteng, Free State, North West, and Northern Cape. Authorities reported fatalities, missing persons, and issued high alerts while implementing emergency measures to mitigate the disaster.