Winter Storm Ravages South Africa: Death Toll Surpasses 40

Four school children were among the dead, as heavy rainfall and bitterly cold conditions persist accross the country. The storm has also affected the power and water supply in the Eastern Cape province,

At least 49 individuals have lost their lives in South Africa due to severe floods triggered by heavy rainfall in the Eastern Cape province, according to officials who spoke on Wednesday.

The predominantly countryside area, extending from the Indian Ocean up to the lofty interior mountains, has faced intense rainfall and snowfall since the start of the week.

Much of
South Africa
Has experienced intense rain showers and extremely frigid temperatures over the last few days.

“We have never witnessed such an occurrence of snow alongside heavy rainfall during winter at the same time,” said Eastern Cape Premier Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane to journalists.

Schoolchildren among the dead

According to provincial officials, among the victims were four children traveling in a school bus that was carried off by the floodwaters.

Mabuyane stated that unfortunately, four of these students have been confirmed dead, including both the driver and the conductor of the minibus taxi.

“The search continues for four learners who remain unaccounted for,” he went on to say, noting that three others have since been located alive.

Authorities did not offer further details regarding the remaining individuals affected, stating that the scenario is still developing.

The Eastern Cape has never seen such disasters before.

The country’s meteorological agency has cautioned that harsh and intense winter weather is anticipated to persist through at least the midpoint of this week.

“Currently, we are focused on the rescue mission. We are working to retrieve our team members from that predicament, whether they are alive or deceased,” Mabuyane stated.

Earlier, he informed SABC News that only a single helicopter was accessible within the province.

“We need more resources,” he said. “We have never experienced disasters like this but now it’s inevitable with
climate change along with global warming
,” Mabuyane added.

Hundreds sheltering from cold

Photos from the distant region reveal makeshift communities submerged underwater, with the catastrophe having inundated houses and forced inhabitants to leave their homes.

Local authorities disclosed considerable destruction of facilities, encompassing electricity and water provision systems.

Many families have taken refuge from the chill in local community centers.

In response to the circumstances, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa issued a statement emphasizing that severe winter conditions continue to pose significant risks to people’s lives. He noted that emergency services, such as the National Disaster Management Centre, are actively monitoring and addressing these unfolding emergencies with appropriate care.

Edited by: Zac Crellin

Author: Jenipher Camino Gonzalez (with AFP, Reuters)