The death toll from devastating floods in South Africa’s Eastern Cape has risen to 49, officials confirmed on Wednesday, June 11, 2025.
Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane revealed the updated figure during a press conference in Johannesburg.
He said the rising number reflects the increasing scale of destruction caused by the severe winter cold front.
Heavy rain and snow have pounded parts of the country since the weekend, crippling transport and power networks.
The downpour has triggered dangerous flooding across towns and villages, leaving rescue efforts stretched and ongoing.
A school bus was among the latest casualties, swept away by raging floodwaters near Mthatha, officials reported.
Provincial safety authorities confirmed the recovery of eight bodies from the bus incident alone.
Premier Mabuyane later clarified that six deaths were confirmed, while four passengers remain missing.
The bus was carrying 13 schoolchildren and two adults when it was engulfed by floodwaters.
Officials have intensified search operations for the missing, but poor weather has complicated efforts.
Flooding has become increasingly frequent in South Africa, driven by worsening climate change conditions.
Meteorologists warned that more cold fronts and rainfall may hit the region in the coming days.
In April 2022, a storm on the East Coast killed nearly 400 people and displaced thousands.
Now, communities fear history may repeat itself as flood risks rise with every winter season.
Emergency crews continue battling through debris-filled roads to reach isolated and submerged areas.
Local residents have been urged to relocate to higher ground and avoid flooded routes.
The provincial government has requested additional support from national disaster agencies.
Temporary shelters are being set up in churches and community halls for displaced families.
Food, blankets, and clean water remain in short supply as aid teams scramble to respond.
Authorities expect the death toll could still rise as searches continue in remote locations.
Civil society groups have called for faster investment in flood defenses and early warning systems.
Critics say the government has failed to act swiftly on past recommendations following previous floods.
Premier Mabuyane assured the public that investigations into preparedness and response are already underway.
For now, South Africa mourns yet another weather disaster that has claimed lives and left many homeless.