South Africa Floods: Death Toll Climbs to 49 as Winter Storms Worsen

EASTERN CAPE, SOUTH AFRICA – The death toll from devastating floods and winter storms in South Africa’s Eastern Cape province has risen to 49, officials confirmed on Wednesday, June 11. Among the deceased are four children and two adults whose school minibus was swept away by raging floodwaters.

The province has been lashed by relentless heavy rain, snowfall, and icy winds since last week, resulting in widespread destruction and displacement across affected regions. Eastern Cape Premier Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane said the situation remains critical and evolving, with search and recovery efforts still underway.

“As of now, the stats have escalated to 49,” Mabuyane told reporters, referencing police reports. “Four of the learners, along with the minibus driver and conductor, have died. Four children are still missing, while three were found alive.”

Homes Destroyed, Families Displaced

The OR Tambo and Amathole districts have borne the brunt of the disaster, with several hundred residents displaced and emergency shelters established in schools and town halls. Authorities have also reported landslides and major damage to infrastructure, including roads and public utilities.

In a heart-stopping rescue earlier this week, three children were saved after spending hours stranded in trees to escape rising floodwaters.

Government Appeals for More Resources

Premier Mabuyane acknowledged the limited emergency resources, revealing that the province had only one helicopter available for rescue missions.

“We have never experienced disasters like this,” he said, attributing the worsening pattern to climate change and global warming. “We need more resources to respond effectively.”

National Response and Weather Outlook

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called the situation “life-threatening”, urging citizens to remain cautious and cooperative as emergency services respond to ongoing crises. The National Disaster Management Centre has mobilized support teams to assist local efforts.

The South African Weather Service has warned that the extreme conditions will persist at least through midweek, with further flooding, snow, and cold expected.

Climate Change: A Growing Threat

While harsh winter weather is not unusual in South Africa, climate variability and global warming are intensifying the frequency and severity of natural disasters, including floods, droughts, and wildfires. The Green Climate Fund has identified the country as highly vulnerable to the escalating impacts of climate change.

As the nation grapples with yet another climate-driven emergency, authorities continue to search for the missing, support displaced families, and rebuild damaged infrastructure — even as weather warnings remain in place across multiple provinces.