Rescue teams are still searching for a child while three bodies remain unclaimed following deadly floods in the Eastern Cape. 

The floods caused extensive destruction, resulting in fatalities, infrastructure damage, displaced families, and livestock losses. Additionally, water and electricity services were disrupted, and access to healthcare was impaired.

The hardest hit by the inclement weather on June 9 and 10 were the OR Tambo and Amathole district municipalities. Parts of Alfred Nzo, Chris Hani District, Joe Gqabi and Sarah Baartman municipalities were also affected.

The disaster was officially classified as a national disaster. 

During a media briefing on Wednesday, Eastern Cape Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC Zolile Williams said the number of deaths remains at 103, and 100 of them have been identified and buried. 

“One child is still missing, and the rescue teams are still searching. Three bodies remain unclaimed, two of which have not been positively identified through the national population register,” Williams said. 

He urged those who are still searching for missing loved ones to come forward, as the information can help rescue teams determine if any individuals are still unaccounted for and to continue their search efforts.

For burials, Williams said a coordinated task team was established to work closely with families, for proper coordination of burial services and support for all the deceased.

Williams said the disaster affected over 6,869 households. Of these, 4,724 homes were destroyed, leaving thousands homeless, while 2,145 homes were partially damaged. 

“To date, more than 1,353 displaced individuals have been accommodated across mass care centres and 122 in Temporary Emergency Accommodation, prioritising the most vulnerable groups, with full access to healthcare, food, sanitation, dignity packs, mattresses, blankets, and school uniforms. Numbers at mass care centres are decreasing as people either seek shelter with their relatives or go back to their houses as they become habitable,” Williams said. 

He added that the Department of Home Affairs has been helping individuals. As a result, a total of 1,197 Smart ID card applications have been received and are currently being processed. While 103 birth certificate applications were finalised, with 22 certificates already collected by applicants. Additionally, 100 death certificates were also registered and issued. 

thobeka.ngema@inl.co.za

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