EASTERN CAPE, SOUTH AFRICA – At least 49 people have died following a devastating winter storm that battered parts of South Africa, with the Eastern Cape province bearing the brunt of the disaster. The storm, which began over the weekend, brought a rare combination of heavy rains and snow that triggered widespread flooding and infrastructure collapse.
Among the deceased were four schoolchildren travelling in a minibus that was swept away by floodwaters. The driver and a conductor of the vehicle also died. Four other learners remain missing, while three survivors were rescued, according to Eastern Cape Premier Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane.
The premier described the weather as unprecedented, noting that it is the first time the province has experienced torrential rains and snow simultaneously in winter.
The South African Weather Service has issued ongoing warnings, predicting severe weather will continue into midweek. Much of the country has been affected by the bitter cold, with snow reported in parts of the highlands.
In the Eastern Cape, the storm has displaced hundreds. Informal settlements have been submerged, and residents are now seeking refuge in community halls and temporary shelters. The flooding has also damaged critical infrastructure, disrupting water and electricity supply across several municipalities.
Emergency response efforts are underway, but authorities say resources are limited. Mabuyane told the media that the province has only one helicopter to assist with search and rescue operations.
President Cyril Ramaphosa issued a national statement, describing the conditions as life-threatening and confirming that emergency services and the National Disaster Management Centre are responding to the unfolding crisis.
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