South Africa Floods Leave Nine Dead as Minibus Swept Off Road

(MENAFN) Nine people have been confirmed dead after torrential flooding swept a minibus off the road in South Africa’s Eastern Cape Province on Tuesday, authorities said. Three schoolchildren miraculously survived the ordeal by holding onto trees, according to local media.

Initial reports from the Eastern Cape Provincial Government indicated that six bodies were discovered in Mthatha’s Decoligny village, with a seventh victim recovered near the Bedlana River in Tsolo.

"Devastating weather conditions which brought intense cold, heavy rains and flash floods have also caused significant damage to road infrastructure, the displacement of residents and disruption of essential services. Seven people have tragically lost their lives due to recent flooding emanating from inclement weather conditions," the statement noted.

Later in the evening, at approximately 10 p.m. (2000 GMT), two additional bodies were recovered, raising the death toll to nine.

Earlier that day, the South African Weather Service (SAWS) issued an orange-level alert for Eastern Cape, warning of severe weather, including flash flooding, snowfall, and powerful winds.

In neighboring KwaZulu-Natal Province, SAWS also released an orange level five alert. Although no fatalities were reported there, the region experienced significant snowfall, prompting officials to advise residents to remain indoors.

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