The tragic impact of last week’s flooding in the Eastern Cape has deepened, with the death toll now standing at 92 following the recovery of two additional bodies on Wednesday night, including that of a teenage girl found along the Mthatha River. Premier Oscar Mabuyane confirmed the grim update, noting that Mthatha has emerged as the hardest-hit area, accounting for 68 of the recorded fatalities.
“Progress has been made with the processing of the bodies, as 86 bodies have now been positively identified, with 83 collected by family members,” said Mabuyane in an official statement. In light of the escalating crisis, the premier has implored citizens to report any missing persons to local police stations.
The flooding has left about 4,308 individuals homeless across the province, prompting a robust response from the provincial government, which is working tirelessly to provide urgent humanitarian assistance. Mabuyane assured that processes are underway to deploy temporary residential units for those displaced, while significant efforts are being made to restore vital infrastructure damaged during the floods.
The scale of the devastation continues to unfold, with assessments and quantifications of the damage ongoing. “We are encouraged by the outpouring of love and support from all corners of the globe. The provincial government remains committed to working alongside municipalities, national departments, and civil society to restore dignity and livelihoods across the province,” he remarked.
In the wake of the catastrophe, a day of mourning is being held in Mthatha on Thursday to honour those who lost their lives in this tragic disaster. The heart-wrenching stories of survivors underscore the severity of the floods, with many recounting their terrifying experiences during the storm.
The community continues to come together in solidarity, as first responders and local volunteers step up to assist those in need, showcasing the resilience and strength of the Eastern Cape in the face of adversity.