Flood Catastrophe in South Africa Claims 49 Lives, Including Schoolchildren

South Africa is facing national mourning after floods triggered by a fierce cold front killed at least 49 people. The storm unleashed heavy rain and snow, causing rivers to overflow and devastating communities, particularly in the Eastern Cape where homes were destroyed and infrastructure collapsed.

In a tragic incident that captured the country’s attention, a school minibus carrying 13 people was swept away by floodwaters in Decoligny village. The bus was on its morning route to school on Tuesday when it was pulled into a swollen river.

Eastern Cape Premier Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane confirmed that six people died in the minibus disaster, including four learners, the driver, and his assistant. Four others from the vehicle are still missing, and search-and-rescue teams are working tirelessly to find them.

President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased and acknowledged the bravery of those involved in the rescue mission. His office confirmed that three children were rescued from the minibus during the chaotic scene.

The impact of the floods extends beyond the minibus tragedy. Many residents have been displaced from their homes and are seeking refuge in temporary shelters. Emergency teams are battling poor conditions to restore power and reopen blocked roads in the affected areas.

South Africa has faced several fatal floods in recent years. In 2022, heavy rains in Durban and KwaZulu-Natal province resulted in nearly 400 deaths. Experts continue to warn that climate change is amplifying the frequency and severity of such weather events.

Authorities have urged residents in flood-prone regions to remain alert and obey safety advisories. The latest catastrophe has sparked urgent discussions about disaster preparedness, climate adaptation, and the urgent need for stronger infrastructure across vulnerable regions.