South Africa declares national disaster after deadly storms

South Africa has declared a national state of disaster following devastating storms that swept through several provinces last week, with the Eastern Cape bearing the brunt of the damage.

The severe weather—marked by heavy rainfall, snow, and strong winds—has led to widespread destruction, particularly around the city of Mthatha.

The death toll from the flooding has risen to 92, including 31 children, and is expected to increase as rescue and recovery efforts continue.

Local media reports indicate that at least two school children remain missing after the bus they were traveling in was swept away. Authorities have urged residents to report missing persons to aid ongoing search operations.

In response to the tragedy, the Eastern Cape government declared Thursday a day of mourning.

A memorial service was held at one of the few remaining functional schools in Mthatha to honor the victims.

More than 4,000 people have been displaced, with significant damage to homes, infrastructure, and essential services in the Eastern Cape—one of South Africa’s most impoverished regions.

Efforts are underway to restore water and electricity to affected areas.

The national disaster declaration enables the government to mobilize emergency funding for relief and reconstruction across the hardest-hit provinces: Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Western Cape, and Free State.