A devastating winter storm has ravaged much of South Africa’s Eastern Cape province, killing at least 49 people following serious flooding and landslides, provincial authorities confirmed on Wednesday, June 11.
The deaths total four children who were traveling as passengers on a school minibus that was inundated by surging waters along the vicinity of Mthatha. Eastern Cape Premier Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane said that more people could die as rescue teams conduct ongoing damage assessment and search and rescue operations in the heavily affected, largely rural regions.
“Just now, the confirmed death toll has risen to 49,” Mabuyane said in a press conference. The school transport bus had 13 people on board when the floods swept it. “Unfortunately, four children, the conductor, and the driver have been confirmed dead,” he reported. Three children survived, while four others remain unaccounted for.
The tempest dropped an unusual mix of snow, powerful winds, and heavy downpours, causing massive destruction. “We have never seen such a combination of snow and floods during winter,” Mabuyane said.
Rescue efforts continue, with emergency responders searching for those missing and trying to assist displaced families. Provincial Transport Minister Xolile Nqatha cautioned that numbers of missing could be large, and the ultimate death toll might increase still further.
Photographs of the affected areas indicate informal settlements submerged under water, and water and power facilities have been seriously disrupted. Hundreds of families are currently taking refuge in community centres in freezing weather.
There are limited resources hindering relief efforts, with a single helicopter at their disposal. Mabuyane called for more national help, citing the growing effects of climate change. President Cyril Ramaphosa confirmed that national disaster agencies are engaged and warned that life-threatening weather could continue throughout the week.
