South Africa Floods Death Toll Rises to 78

Severe flooding in South Africa's Eastern Cape province has resulted in at least 78 confirmed deaths, with the toll expected to rise as search and rescue operations continue amid widespread devastation and resource shortages. The floods, triggered by a powerful cold front bringing heavy rain and snow, swept away homes, vehicles, and a school bus, killing several children and leaving others missing. Rescue operations have been hampered by a lack of helicopters, specialist divers, and K-9 units, leading local officials to describe their efforts as 'paralysed.' Power outages have affected hundreds of thousands, and many residents remain displaced or missing. The South African government has declared a state of national disaster in four provinces. Authorities are calling for improved disaster preparedness and more proactive responses to increasingly severe climate-related emergencies.