A devastating cold front has brought severe weather to parts of South Africa, resulting in widespread flooding that has claimed at least 49 lives. The Eastern Cape province has been one of the hardest hit, with floodwaters forcing people out of their homes, causing power outages, and disrupting transportation networks. The extreme weather conditions have also led to road closures, further complicating rescue efforts.
In a heart-wrenching incident, a school bus carrying 13 people, including 11 pupils, was swept away by floodwaters while crossing a bridge in Decoligny village, near Mthatha. Sadly, four children, the driver, and the conductor have been confirmed dead, while four others remain missing. Rescue teams are still searching for more bodies, with three children rescued alive after being found clinging to trees.
The provincial government has confirmed that the death toll has risen to 49, with many more people displaced or affected by the floods. Nearly 500,000 homes have been left without power, and state utility Eskom is working to restore electricity. The severe weather has also caused widespread infrastructural damage, forcing the closure of major roads in both the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal provinces.
According to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s office, the president has expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and urged citizens to remain vigilant. “As winter weather intensifies, we must act with caution, care, and unity,” he said in a statement. The president’s office also reported that three children were rescued from the school bus.
The impact of the floods extends beyond the immediate loss of life, with 58 schools in the Eastern Cape and 68 schools in KwaZulu-Natal province affected by the severe weather. Authorities continue to warn of further weather-related risks as rescue efforts carry on under difficult conditions.
This disaster highlights the growing concern over climate change and its impact on weather patterns in South Africa. In 2022, the country experienced deadly floods that left up to 400 people dead in Durban and the KwaZulu-Natal province. As the situation continues to unfold, the nation mourns the loss of life and comes together to support those affected by the disaster.
Source: CNN
