Eastern Cape Floods Kill 86 Displace Hundreds in South Africa

The death toll from devastating floods in South Africa's Eastern Cape province has risen to at least 86, with ongoing rescue efforts continuing to recover bodies in the worst-affected area of Mthatha. The floods, caused by a severe winter storm that led to a river bursting its banks, have submerged homes and destroyed over 3,000 houses, forcing hundreds of people to relocate. Among the deceased are six schoolchildren who were swept away in a school van, with some still missing, highlighting the tragedy's impact on vulnerable communities. Officials, including Police Minister Senzo Mchunu and President Cyril Ramaphosa, are actively overseeing the response and relief efforts, with Ramaphosa describing the floods as "unprecedented" and planning a visit to the disaster region. Local and international aid organizations, such as the South African Red Cross Society and the Gift of the Givers Foundation, are providing assistance amid the crisis. Authorities continue door-to-door searches as waters recede, anticipating further discoveries and hoping to find survivors.