South Africa Continues Search as Flood Deaths Reach 49

Rescue operations are ongoing in South Africa’s Eastern Cape province following severe flooding caused by heavy rainfall and freezing temperatures earlier this week, with the confirmed death toll now standing at 49. The extreme weather hit the largely rural area on Monday, causing widespread inundation that destroyed homes and led to at least one tragic incident involving a school minibus. Four children from that bus are still reported missing. A spokesperson for the Eastern Cape government indicated that the number of unaccounted individuals could be higher. Five dedicated search and rescue teams are currently focused on efforts around the city of Mthatha, located approximately 800 kilometers south of Johannesburg. The provincial premier confirmed that the fatalities include at least four children. The school minibus carrying 11 children was reportedly swept away by floodwaters; four children and two Adults from the bus have been confirmed dead, while three children were rescued alive. In a separate incident, a boy died after being swept away while walking to school. Officials noted the unusual combination of snow and torrential rains occurring simultaneously in winter. The floods have displaced at least 600 people, many of whom are sheltering in community halls. Significant damage to critical infrastructure, including power and water supplies, has been reported, affecting at least 20 health facilities. The Eastern Cape, known as the birthplace of Nelson Mandela, is one of the poorest provinces in South Africa, with a high percentage of its population living below the poverty line. President Cyril Ramaphosa stated that emergency services, including the National Disaster Management Centre, are addressing the unfolding crisis.