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The death toll from the devastating floods that swept through South Africa’s Eastern Cape province has risen to at least 86, as search and rescue operations continue in the wake of days of relentless rainfall and violent winds. Emergency crews, volunteers, and aid organizations are working tirelessly to recover bodies, locate missing persons, and provide urgent assistance to thousands left homeless by the natural disaster.
According to an AFP report, heavy rains battered the region earlier this week, causing rivers to overflow, washing away homes, vehicles, and public infrastructure, and leaving entire communities submerged. The city of Mthatha, one of the worst-hit areas, has witnessed scenes of heartbreak and destruction, as families search for loved ones and begin the arduous task of rebuilding their lives.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, who visited the disaster zone on Friday, described the situation as a “catastrophic disaster” and warned that the frequency and severity of such weather events are increasing due to climate change. “We are witnessing the devastating consequences of a changing climate,” Ramaphosa stated during his visit. “Some areas experienced water levels rising over four meters, submerging homes, roads, and essential public services.”
Police Minister Senzo Mchunu confirmed on Saturday that the official death toll had risen to 86. He acknowledged the possibility of further casualties, as many areas remain difficult to access due to debris, floodwaters, and damaged infrastructure. “We have received updated reports, and sadly, the death toll continues to climb,” Mchunu said.
Among the victims were six schoolchildren and three adults traveling in a school bus that was swept away by floodwaters earlier in the week. Rescuers managed to save three students who survived by clinging to tree branches, but four others remained unaccounted for by Saturday. Efforts to locate them continued throughout the weekend, with divers and emergency personnel scouring rivers and flooded plains.
Aid organizations and community volunteers have been at the forefront of rescue and relief efforts. Groups like Gift of the Givers, South Africa’s largest disaster response organization, have mobilized teams equipped with boats, medical supplies, food, and blankets to support affected families. Local schools, churches, and community centers have been converted into temporary shelters for the thousands displaced by the disaster.
“The human impact of this tragedy is heartbreaking,” said Imtiaz Sooliman, founder of Gift of the Givers. “Many people lost everything overnight — their homes, possessions, and, tragically, their loved ones. Our teams are doing everything possible to provide immediate relief and comfort.”
The Eastern Cape, a region known for its lush hills and rural settlements, is no stranger to heavy winter rainfall. However, meteorologists and climate experts have noted that the intensity of this year’s weather has been unprecedented. The South African Weather Service reported record-breaking rainfall levels in several areas, triggering flash floods and landslides.
Ramaphosa acknowledged the role of climate change in the unfolding disaster, emphasizing that South Africa, like many developing nations, faces increased vulnerability to extreme weather events. According to the Green Climate Fund, the country is among those most at risk of climate-induced disasters, with severe droughts, floods, and heatwaves becoming more frequent.
One of the affected communities is the historic village of Qunu, located near Mthatha and famously known as the birthplace of former South African president and anti-apartheid icon Nelson Mandela. Residents in Qunu have been working to clear mud and debris from their homes while salvaging personal belongings. Local leaders have called for urgent government assistance to help rebuild roads, restore water and electricity services, and provide long-term support to families impacted by the floods.
For many residents, the immediate concern is survival. Displaced families are in desperate need of clean drinking water, food, medical supplies, and shelter. Aid groups warn that the risk of waterborne diseases, including cholera and dysentery, could rise sharply in the coming days if clean-up operations and health interventions are delayed.
The South African government has promised to mobilize emergency funds and resources to support the Eastern Cape’s recovery. Speaking after his visit, President Ramaphosa pledged that affected communities would not be abandoned. “We are committed to standing with our people in this time of great difficulty,” he said. “We will rebuild, we will recover, and we will honor the memory of those we have lost.”
As the search for missing persons continues, rescue teams have urged residents to report anyone unaccounted for and to avoid flood-prone areas. The government has also issued warnings about the possibility of further rains in the region, advising caution as recovery efforts progress.
