Death toll in Eastern Cape floods rises to 78 as rescue efforts intensify

By Johnathan Paoli

The death toll from the devastating floods that struck the Eastern Cape has risen to 78, with dozens still missing as rescue operations continue across affected areas.

The torrential rains that began earlier this week have left a trail of destruction, including the death of 13 school children who died after a minibus taxi was swept off the R61 bridge near Mthatha.

While some bodies have since been recovered, search teams are still combing riverbanks and fields for at least four missing learners.

Gift of the Givers and local search-and-rescue teams are now working with emergency personnel deployed from Gqeberha, East London and the Chris Hani District.

Heavily affected areas such as Decoligny village and Joe Slovo township remain under intensive surveillance as weather warnings persist for continued rain, strong winds and plummeting temperatures.

Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni addressed the media on Thursday, following the