Devastating Floods in Nelson Mandela Bay Leave Four Dead, Many Missing
Image Source: Nelson Mandela Bay has been hard hit by flooding on the back of heavy rains in the region. (Supplied/NSRI)
Published by Eveyrhting ZA News
PORT ELIZABETH, South Africa – Persistent rain over the past few days has caused catastrophic flooding in Nelson Mandela Bay, Eastern Cape, leaving at least four people dead and several others missing.
The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) reported the deaths of a man and a baby, while search efforts continue for four missing women. Mayor Gary Van Niekerk confirmed the discovery of two additional bodies recovered from a nearby river on Sunday.
Rising floodwaters have trapped residents in their homes, forcing emergency services to conduct numerous rescue operations. NSRI spokesperson Craig Lambinon stated that over 70 people have been safely evacuated to various shelters.
“The situation is extremely bad right now,” said Corene Concradie, project manager for Gift of the Givers Eastern Cape. Her team has been assisting with evacuations, including an elderly woman whose shack was on the verge of collapse.
Flooding has also caused widespread infrastructure damage. The fire station in Kariega is submerged, and numerous roads are impassable due to high water levels. Local authorities have urged residents to avoid flooded roads and to call for help if stranded.
According to the municipality, various road closures in Kariega and Greenbushes are in place, due to the weather:
- Stock and Daniel Pienaar streets;
- Algoa Road;
- Cuyler Street;
- North Street and Graaff-Reinet Road;
- Van Der Riet and Taylor streets;
- Victoria Drive to Caledon Street; and
- Matanzima Road, KwanoBuhle.
“Emergency services have been working tirelessly throughout the night,” said Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality spokesperson Sithembiso Soyaya. “Large areas are without power, and various roads are closed.”
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued warnings for continued heavy rain along the Eastern Cape coast, raising concerns about further flooding and potential mudslides.
About The Author
