South Africa Declares State of Disaster as Flood Toll in Eastern Cape Rises to 92

South Africa has declared a state of national disaster as the death toll from severe floods in the Eastern Cape region climbed to 92. The devastating floods, driven by heavy rains, have caused widespread destruction and displacement across the province.

In honor of those lost, the Eastern Cape government held a provincial Day of Mourning and a memorial service at King Sabatha Dalindyebo TVET College in Mthatha, one of the few schools still standing with intact infrastructure.

During the memorial, Zolile Williams, a member of the provincial executive council, reflected on the profound impact of the disaster. “Since June 9, this province has been hit hard by unprecedented, catastrophic, and unimaginable disasters,” he said. “About 92 people have perished, and many are still unaccounted for, some yet to be found.”

The floods resulted from an extreme weather front bringing heavy rain, strong winds, and snow to parts of the province, which is among South Africa’s poorest. Entire communities have been flooded, with roads, homes, schools, and infrastructure severely damaged.

Reports indicate that at least two school children, who were washed away in a bus, are among the missing, though the number remains unverified. Thousands of residents have been displaced, facing the challenge of rebuilding their lives amid ongoing recovery efforts.