Death Toll Climbs to 90 as Eastern Cape Reels from Flooding Disaster

The Eastern Cape province of South Africa has experienced devastating floods, resulting in at least 90 deaths, including 30 children. Rescue teams are still searching for missing victims amidst widespread destruction, while thousands have been displaced. President Cyril Ramaphosa has called the disaster catastrophic, attributing it to climate change. The region’s recovery will be lengthy, with ongoing support pledged by local and national authorities.

At least 90 people, including 30 children, have died from disastrous flooding in South Africa’s Eastern Cape province, as reported by local government on Monday. The floods, which struck last week, have wreaked havoc on the region, prompting rescue teams to race against time to find more victims amid scenes of chaos. Thousands have been displaced, infrastructure has been overwhelmed, and the region’s vulnerability has been starkly revealed, particularly in one of the country’s poorer areas.

Among the deceased are six children who tragically lost their lives when a school bus was swept away by the rising waters. Three other students managed to survive by clinging to trees as the flood raged. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, who visited the affected areas last week, described the floods as a “catastrophic disaster.” He linked this extreme weather to the ongoing impacts of climate change, amplifying concerns over future events.

Regions like Mthatha, about 800 kilometers (500 miles) south of Johannesburg, were hit hardest, with floodwaters reportedly reaching heights of 4 meters (around 13 feet), causing widespread devastation to homes and infrastructure. Landslides, triggered by relentless rainfall, further complicated relief efforts by rendering large areas inaccessible.

Provincial authorities have confirmed that at least 2,686 residents have been left homeless, currently sheltering in temporary accommodation. Emergency services are feeling the strain, facing critical shortages of rescue equipment and personnel. Nevertheless, efforts to deliver food, medical aid, and support to affected communities continue, with both the Eastern Cape government and national authorities promising sustained assistance toward recovery.

Climate experts are warning that these types of extreme weather events may become more frequent and severe as global climate change progresses, presenting significant risks to vulnerable populations in southern Africa. As assessment of the damage unfolds, rescue and relief operations are working tirelessly to ensure support for those in need.

The catastrophic flooding in South Africa’s Eastern Cape has claimed at least 90 lives, including 30 children, and resulted in thousands being displaced. As rescue efforts continue, the significant impact of climate change on extreme weather patterns is underscored. The region faces a long recovery journey, with local and national authorities vowing ongoing support for affected communities. Nonetheless, the threat of such natural disasters highlights the urgent need for adaptation and relief measures in vulnerable areas.

Original Source: ilkha.com