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Death Toll Rises to 49 in South Africa’s Devastating Floods as Search for Missing Students Continues

June 11, 2025

(3 Minutes Read)

The death toll from the devastating floods that have ravaged parts of South Africa has risen to 49, officials confirmed on Wednesday. The disaster, which has displaced hundreds and destroyed homes, took a tragic turn when a minibus carrying school students was swept away while attempting to cross a flooded bridge.

Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane provided the grim update to reporters, confirming that four bodies of students were recovered on Wednesday. This follows the dramatic rescue of three survivors on Tuesday. Four students remain unaccounted for, and rescue operations are ongoing.

The minibus, carrying 13 people including the driver and his assistant, was en route to a school in the city of Mthatha when it was overtaken by rising floodwaters on Tuesday morning. The tragic incident underscores the deadly impact of the severe weather that has battered the region.

Since the weekend, several parts of South Africa, particularly in the Eastern Cape, have been hit by extreme weather, including heavy rains, snowfall, and gale-force winds. The resulting floods have caused widespread destruction, submerging homes and vehicles, and washing away vital infrastructure such as bridges and roads.

Hundreds of residents have been forced to flee their homes and are now being temporarily sheltered in community halls. Authorities and emergency teams are working around the clock to assess damage, conduct search and recovery missions, and provide aid to displaced families.

Premier Mabuyane described the disaster as “one of the worst to hit the province,” expressing deep concern over the scale of destruction and the lives lost.

On Wednesday, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa extended his condolences to the families of the victims and communities affected by the floods. He assured the public that the government is mobilising support and resources to assist those in need. “We mourn with the families who have lost their loved ones in this tragedy,” Ramaphosa said. “Government departments are coordinating relief efforts to ensure shelter, food, and other necessities reach the affected areas.”

As the search continues for the missing students and others possibly trapped or swept away, the nation remains on alert for further adverse weather conditions. Emergency services have urged residents in vulnerable areas to remain cautious and heed official warnings. The coming days are expected to be critical in the ongoing recovery and relief operations, as communities across Eastern Cape and beyond grapple with the aftermath of a disaster that has shaken the region.