Death Toll in South Africa Floods Rises to 78 Amid Recovery Efforts

Severe flooding in South Africa’s Eastern Cape has resulted in at least 78 deaths. Rescue operations continue as victims are being recovered from the devastation. More than 3,000 homes have been impacted, with significant concerns about further casualties and damage to infrastructure.

In a tragic aftermath of severe flooding in South Africa’s Eastern Cape, rescue teams have confirmed the death toll has now reached 78, with ongoing searches for missing persons. The deluge, striking on Monday, has devastated the region around Mthatha — around 800 kilometers south of Johannesburg — where residents are digging through mud to salvage what remains of their homes.

This winter storm, characterized by heavy rains and strong winds, caused rivers to overflow, engulfing many nearby homes, particularly in informal settlements. As recovery efforts continue, onlookers witnessed rescue teams remove bodies from a collapsed one-room house late Thursday, with some victims tragically being children.

Mud-caked houses, overturned cars, and debris-strewn fields paint a grim picture of the aftermath. “As the water subsides, more bodies are being discovered,” reported Caroline Gallant of the South African Red Cross Society, who indicated that over 3,000 homes have been affected, deeming this the worst disaster the area has ever experienced.

Velenkosini Hlabisa, minister of cooperative governance and traditional affairs, confirmed the disturbing rise in casualties, also indicating that six school children were lost among ten swept away in a school van. Some children remain unaccounted for. Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube expressed the community’s grief, stating, “We are reeling,” as the reality of loss becomes clearer.

The Gift of the Givers Foundation has reported the recovery of more victims, including three children. President Cyril Ramaphosa has referred to the floods as “unprecedented” and plans to visit the affected areas on Friday to assess damage firsthand.

First responders are continuing their door-to-door search. One rescuer, who requested anonymity, expressed concern for survivors as his team reads the conditions and aims to reach individuals trapped within their homes. The storm also caused significant disruptions to power and water supply, displacing approximately 600 residents, who are now taking shelter in community facilities.

With infrastructure severely impacted, local authorities predict the numbers will rise. Spokesperson Ali Sablay stated that those in need of assistance surged from 5,000 to 10,000 over the span of a day.

In light of the ongoing disaster, the government has cautioned citizens to remain vigilant, citing forecasts for further extreme weather in the coming days. The Eastern Cape is known for its struggle with poverty, with 72 percent of its population living below the poverty line, amplifying the impact of such natural disasters.

While snow and heavy rainfall are typical during South African winters, the country grapples with climate change implications that elevate the risk of flooding, droughts, and wildfires. Minister Hlabisa emphasized the urgent need for evacuations from flood-prone areas, stating, “Climate change is a reality now.”

In summary, the devastating floods in South Africa’s Eastern Cape have resulted in at least 78 confirmed deaths, with search efforts ongoing. As communities grapple with the aftermath, the disaster has highlighted the vulnerabilities faced by the region, particularly in light of climate change. The government and rescue teams are focused on recovery and providing support to affected residents.

Original Source: thepeninsulaqatar.com