The ongoing floods in the Eastern Cape have claimed seven lives and the death toll may rise as the heavy rains continue to batter the province.
According to the provincial government, the loss of life occurred amid intense cold and flooding conditions that have severely affected several communities in the province.
The fatalities have for now been reported from various areas at the OR Tambo District Municipality in the northern part of the province.
The government added that the severe weather conditions have also caused significant damages to road infrastructure, displacement of residents, and unfortunately loss of lives.
The government said the police in the province have confirmed that six bodies were found along Decoligny village in Mthatha, while the seventh body was recovered at Tsolo near the Bedlana River.
There is an ongoing search is still ongoing regarding a minibus carrying school children that swept away earlier on Tuesday, 10 June 2025.
“As disaster management teams work tirelessly to assist affected households and secure the
safety of residents, Premier Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane has deployed Members of the Executive Council to support the O.R. Tambo District Municipality in its efforts to rescue citizens including ensuring the provision of necessary resources,” the government said in a statement.
As the weather persists, the provincial government said the priority is the safety and well-being of residents, while working to mitigate damage to infrastructure and restore essential services.
