Death Toll Hits 78 as Rescue Teams Search for Survivors. Image: BusinessLive.
(The Post News)– Rescue teams in the Eastern Cape have been recovering bodies and providing aid after a severe storm brought heavy rains and strong winds to the region. The death toll has risen to at least 78, with many more still missing. The storm’s impact has been devastating, with homes destroyed and infrastructure damaged.
The worst-hit area is around Mthatha, where residents are struggling to salvage what they can from their homes. The city is still reeling from the effects of the storm, which caught many off guard. The aftermath has been chaotic, with debris scattered everywhere and many people left without access to basic necessities.
The South African Red Cross Society has described the disaster as the worst ever recorded in the area, with over 3,000 homes affected. As the water recedes, more bodies are being discovered, and the death toll is expected to rise. The organization’s efforts are focused on providing aid and support to those affected.
The death toll includes six school students who were swept away in a school van, with four children still missing. The basic education minister has expressed shock and sadness at the loss of young lives. The incident has raised concerns about safety measures in place for schoolchildren during extreme weather events.
Rescue teams are working tirelessly to find more bodies and potential survivors, with many people still trapped in their homes. The storm has damaged power and water supplies, and at least 600 people have been displaced. The government has urged citizens to be vigilant, as more extreme weather is expected in the coming days.
The province is one of the poorest in South Africa, with 72% of people living below the poverty line. The disaster has highlighted the vulnerability of the region to extreme weather events. Experts warn that climate change is increasing the frequency and severity of such events, making it essential to take proactive measures.
The government is calling for the relocation of people living in flood-prone areas, acknowledging the harsh reality of climate change. The minister of cooperative governance and traditional affairs has emphasized the need for a tough stance on this issue. The aim is to prevent such disasters from occurring in the future and reduce the risk of loss of life.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has described the floods as “unprecedented” and plans to visit the disaster-hit region. The government is working to provide support and aid to those affected, with a focus on recovery and rebuilding. The situation is being closely monitored, and efforts are being made to mitigate the impact of future disasters.
The Gift of the Givers Foundation has reported that the number of people requiring assistance has jumped from 5,000 to 10,000. The organization’s teams have recovered eight new bodies, including three children. The situation is dire, and the need for aid and support is growing by the hour.
The storm has damaged infrastructure, including health facilities, and disrupted essential services. The government is working to restore services and provide support to those affected. The focus is on recovery and rebuilding, with a long-term goal of making the region more resilient to extreme weather events.
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