One more body recovered as Eastern Cape flood death toll climbs to 101
The death toll in the recent devastating floods in the Eastern Cape has surpassed 100.
On Tuesday afternoon, authorities recovered another body, bringing the death toll to 101.
According to reports, the body was spotted by search and rescue teams in a chopper.
The search operation, which includes members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), the South African Police Service’s K9 Unit, and Emergency Management Services (EMS), continues as several people remain missing.
On Monday, five bodies were recovered after the floods, which severely impacted Mthatha and surrounding areas.
Families continue to search local morgues in hopes of identifying missing loved ones.
With 76 fatalities, the OR Tambo District Municipality has recorded the highest number of deaths in the province.
In total, the floods have claimed the lives of 63 adults and 37 children, including 22 school learners.
“The Eastern Cape provincial government once again extends heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones and are now left with a profound and multifaceted impact on their lives,” the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) said in a statement Monday.
“This disaster has significantly disrupted families and Eastern Cape communities at large.”
The provincial government also praised the multidisciplinary search and recovery teams for their dedication since the onset of the disaster.
“Their tireless efforts have been instrumental in recovering dozens of bodies and providing critical support to affected families, even as the search continues,” the department said.
Officials warned that the death toll may still rise as search operations continue in affected areas and more people remain unaccounted for.
Earlier Tuesday, the Eastern Cape provincial government confirmed the official death toll had risen to 100 after additional recoveries were made by rescue teams.
The floods have caused widespread devastation, including loss of life, displacement of residents, and severe damage to infrastructure across several districts.
simon.majadibodu@iol.co.za
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