‘We’re still searching’: 49 dead in Eastern Cape flood tragedy

By Johnathan Paoli

At least 49 people have died in the wake of severe floods in the Eastern Cape province, Premier Oscar Mabuyane confirmed on Wednesday.

This as concerns continue to mount that the death toll may rise further, as several people remain missing.

Late last night, provincial government authorities and emergency teams warned that ongoing search efforts could uncover more victims, particularly in the hardest-hit areas of the OR Tambo District Municipality, Amathole District Municipality, and Alfred Nzo Local Municipality.

Addressing the media in Mthatha, OR Tambo District, earlier last night, Mabuyane described the scale of destruction as “fluid and horrific.” He also warned that the death toll may continue to rise as search and recovery efforts proceed.

“I’ve never seen something like this before,” said Mabuyane. “We’ve had disasters in the past, but this is one of the most severe weather events in our province’s history. The combination