Heavy rainfall and severe storms have wreaked havoc across several areas in South Africa's Eastern Cape Province, leading to tragic consequences. The storms, which began earlier this week, resulted in profound flooding that swallowed homes and displaced thousands of residents in communities around Mthatha on June 11, 2025.
With numerous fatalities reported, including several children, the crisis saw a school bus carrying eleven students being swept from a bridge amid the raging waters. Tragically, while three students clung to trees for survival, four others and two adults were lost. Local officials provided grim updates, confirming that the death toll stands at 49, with rescue operations still actively searching for four additional children who remain missing.
Oscar Mabuyane, the premier of the province, expressed the community's shock over the unexpected combination of heavy rain coupled with snow in the region. As rescue efforts continue, concerns grow regarding the possibility of further casualties as search efforts progress. "This is a disaster of unprecedented proportions," Mabuyane stated, highlighting the challenges faced by emergency responders.
The local power utility has reported significant disruptions, leaving many without electricity or access to clean water. While the worst of the storms appears to have diminished, the long-term impact on the community is yet to be fully assessed.
