Rescue efforts continued in South Africa’s Eastern Cape province on Saturday, as more victims of devastating floods were recovered, pushing the death toll to at least 86.
The flooding, described by President Cyril Ramaphosa as a “catastrophic disaster,” has been linked to the growing impacts of climate change. During a visit to the impoverished region on Friday, Ramaphosa noted that floodwaters reached over four meters (13 feet) in height, following days of heavy rain and strong winds that battered the area.
Police Minister Senzo Mchunu confirmed the updated death toll on Saturday, stating, “the overall figure in the province [has] risen to 86.”
Entire communities were overwhelmed, with thousands of homes, roads, schools, and healthcare facilities buried in mud after being submerged. The worst-hit area was the city of Mthatha, approximately 800 kilometers (500 miles) south of Johannesburg, located near Qunu—the birthplace of former president and anti-apartheid icon Nelson Mandela.
Rescue teams have been conducting door-to-door searches for bodies and possible survivors after many residents were trapped in their homes as floodwaters surged through during the night. Some were forced to climb onto rooftops and wait for hours before being rescued.
Tragically, among the confirmed dead are at least six children and three adults who were on a school bus that was swept away. Three students survived by clinging to trees, while four others remained missing as of Saturday.
Although snow and heavy rains are common in South African winters, the coastal regions were struck by what Ramaphosa described as “unprecedented” weather conditions. Experts, including the Green Climate Fund, have identified South Africa as highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, which is increasing the frequency and severity of extreme weather events across the region.
