Eastern Cape Floods Displace Thousands, Rescue Efforts Underway
Image Source: Heavy rain and winds on Saturday night caused damage to property and municipal infrastructure. photo cred. Sinethemba Witi
Published by Everything ZA News
Gqeberha, South Africa – More than 1,000 people in Nelson Mandela Bay, Eastern Cape, have been displaced by torrential rains that caused deadly flooding over the weekend. At least seven people have died, and disaster management teams are scrambling to respond.
The storm, which began on Saturday, inundated parts of the metro, leaving a trail of destruction. “Seven wards have been severely affected,” said Nelson Mandela Bay metro spokesperson Sithembiso Soyaya. “Displaced residents are taking refuge in community halls across the metro.”
Rescue efforts are ramping up, with the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) deploying a helicopter to assess inaccessible areas. Humanitarian organizations Gift of the Givers and Rescue South Africa are also on the ground, assisting with search and rescue operations.
The Kariega Driving License Testing Centre (DLTC) will remain closed on Monday and Tuesday due to flooding and infrastructure damage.
Meanwhile, the inclement weather has spread to the interior of the country, prompting warnings from the South African Weather Service. The Mangaung Metro in Bloemfontein has urged residents to exercise caution due to the threat of severe thunderstorms and localized flooding. Similar weather conditions are expected in the western parts of the Free State.
“We urge residents to stay vigilant and heed all weather warnings,” said a spokesperson for the South African Weather Service. “Do not attempt to cross flooded roadways and stay informed about the latest developments.”
The full extent of the damage in Nelson Mandela Bay is still being assessed. However, with ongoing rain and the threat of further flooding, the situation remains critical. Disaster management teams are working tirelessly to locate missing individuals, provide aid to displaced residents, and ensure the safety of all communities.
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