Heavy Rain and Landslides Devastate Eastern Cape
A relentless winter storm has unleashed a deadly combination of floods and landslides across South Africa's Eastern Cape province, claiming the lives of at least 49 people. Among the victims were four children who tragically died when their school minibus was swept away by torrential floodwaters near Mthatha.
Ongoing Rescue Efforts and Uncertain Toll
Authorities continue to comb through the affected areas, searching desperately for those still missing. Eastern Cape Premier Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane warned that the death toll could rise as rescue operations unfold in the largely rural region.
“So far, we have confirmed 49 fatalities,” Mabuyane disclosed during a press briefing. The school minibus, carrying 13 passengers, caught in the floodwaters, resulted in the deaths of the driver, conductor, and four young learners. Fortunately, three students were rescued alive, while four remain unaccounted for.
Unprecedented Winter Weather Heightens Disaster Impact
The province is grappling with a rare and severe winter storm, bringing heavy rain, strong winds, and even snow — a combination officials say is virtually unheard of. “We have never seen this kind of simultaneous snow and torrential rain in winter,” Mabuyane stated.
Eastern Cape spans from coastal zones along the Indian Ocean to mountainous inland areas, both of which have suffered extensive damage. Many informal settlements lie submerged under floodwaters, while cold temperatures complicate relief efforts.
Displaced Families and Infrastructure Damage
In the wake of these events, hundreds of families have been forced to take refuge in community centers in bitterly cold conditions. The province is also facing significant disruptions to essential services, including electricity and water supply.
Emergency Services Struggle Amid Limited Resources
Despite ongoing efforts, officials admit that they are stretched thin. With only a single helicopter available for rescue missions, Provincial Transport Minister Xolile Nqatha cautioned that the final death toll could be higher as they continue to search for missing individuals.
“We are still trying to establish how many people are missing beyond the known victims,” Nqatha explained.
National Response and Climate Change Concerns
President Cyril Ramaphosa has acknowledged the life-threatening nature of the severe winter conditions and emphasized that emergency services, including the National Disaster Management Centre, are fully engaged in responding to the situation.
Meanwhile, the national weather service warns that the extreme weather could persist through the middle of the week, maintaining dangerous conditions.
Experts highlight that while winter storms and heavy rains are seasonal occurrences in South Africa, climate change is intensifying their frequency and severity — increasing vulnerability to floods, droughts, and wildfires across the region.
Stories of Survival Amidst the Deluge
Amid the disaster, tales of resilience emerge. Officials reported three children were rescued after clinging to tree branches for hours to stay above rising waters, a stark reminder of both nature’s power and human endurance.
As recovery efforts continue, the need for increased support and resources remains urgent.
