Search and rescue operations continue in flood-stricken OR Tambo district, in the Eastern Cape.
49 people lost their lives in this week’s floods, about 300,000 homes were left without electricity, on Wednesday.
Oscar Mabuyane, Premier of the Eastern Cape, said in addition, hundreds were left displaced, as a result of the floods and infrastructure damaged, including 20 health facilities and roads.
Mabuyane said to a media briefing “It is with a heavy heart that I address you during this difficult and painful time for our province. Over the past two days, relentless rains, strong winds, and landslides have tragically claimed lives and caused widespread devastation across our communities, especially in the OR Tambo and Amathole District Municipalities.”
13 of the 49, were in a mini van when they were swept away.
Three (3) learners were rescued alive on Tuesday but four learners were confirmed dead, alongside the driver and a conductor of the minibus taxi.
Four learners are still missing.
In the Amathole District, heavy rains have led to the displacement of hundreds of residents from informal settlements, with many relocated to temporary shelters.
Authorities have teamed up for rescue efforts to form an Intergovernmental Committee on Disaster Management (ICDM), including OR Tambo District and King Sabata Dalindyebo Local Municipality and the provincial government, Disaster Management teams, SAPS K-9 Divers, Search and Rescue Airwing of the SAPS.
Picture: Supplied