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South Africa battles severe floods and snowstorms, leaving devastation in their wake
Heavy floods and snowstorms have wreaked havoc across South Africa, claiming lives, disrupting infrastructure, and leaving hundreds of thousands without electricity. The Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal provinces have been hit hardest by the extreme weather, which meteorologists attribute to the growing impact of climate change.
Schoolchildren swept away by floods
A minibus carrying schoolchildren was swept away by rising floodwaters in the Eastern Cape, according to provincial government spokesperson Khuselwa Rantjie. While three children were rescued alive, the number of passengers remains unclear. Rescue operations were temporarily halted due to nightfall and are expected to resume on Wednesday.
In a separate tragedy, the bodies of seven people who were washed away by floodwaters were recovered in the OR Tambo district of the same province.
Fatal road accidents and power outages
The treacherous conditions have led to a series of accidents, including the deaths of five people in a minibus crash near East London. The driver reportedly lost control while trying to avoid a fallen tree, according to Eastern Cape transport department spokesperson Unathi Binqose. Two additional passengers sustained injuries in the incident.
South Africa’s state power utility, Eskom, reported widespread power outages affecting nearly half a million homes. Approximately 300,000 homes in 14 towns and villages in the Eastern Cape and 196,000 homes across KwaZulu-Natal are currently without electricity. Eskom is working to restore power as conditions allow.
Snowfall disrupts transport and logistics
KwaZulu-Natal, known for its warm climate, has been blanketed by heavy snow, causing extensive disruptions. Transport Minister Siboniso Duma stated that lorries became immobilized on snow-covered roads, resulting in significant congestion. Authorities deployed grader machines to clear critical routes, as snow accumulated up to 30cm (12 inches) in some areas.
Meteorologist Lehlohonolo Thobela issued warnings about gale-force winds and turbulent seas, further complicating navigation for ships along the coastal provinces.
A grim reminder of climate change
South Africa is no stranger to winter snowfall, which typically occurs from June to August, but the severity of recent storms has raised alarm. Scientists have linked the increasing intensity of rainfall and flooding to climate change, which has exacerbated weather patterns across the region.
Eastern Cape premier Oscar Mabuyane called for vigilance, urging residents to remain cautious in flood-prone areas. “This is a devastating reminder of nature's force,” Mabuyane said in a statement.
Flash floods earlier this year between April 30 and May 2 caused extensive damage to 4,500 homes and left 18 people injured. These recurring events underscore the growing vulnerability of communities in the face of extreme weather.