Devastating Floods in Eastern Cape: Ramaphosa Blames Climate Change

Strategic Insights -

President Cyril Ramaphosa has met with survivors of the devastating floods that have killed at least 78 people in the Eastern Cape, highlighting the catastrophic impact of climate change. The floods have left thousands of people without homes, roads, schools, and health facilities, with many trapped in their homes or on rooftops waiting for rescue. Ramaphosa visited the site where a school bus was swept away, killing six children and three adults, and spoke with a woman who lost her mother and two young nephews. The president estimated that the floodwaters reached over 4m high, emphasizing the severity of the issue.

Key Takeaways:

  • The floods have killed at least 78 people in the Eastern Cape, with the death toll potentially rising.
  • Over 3,500 households have been affected, with many people sheltering in community halls.
  • The area worst hit by the floods and subsequent landslides is the city of Mthatha.
  • Climate change is being blamed for the "catastrophic disaster", with Ramaphosa citing unprecedented weather conditions.
  • The floods have damaged thousands of houses, roads, schools, and health facilities.
  • Rescuers are going door-to-door searching for bodies or possible survivors, with some people stuck in their homes or on rooftops waiting for help.
  • The South African Red Cross Society has sent aid to the Mthatha area, including sending rescue teams and providing shelter for affected individuals.
  • The Green Climate Fund has stated that South Africa is highly vulnerable to the impact of climate variability and change.

Statistics:

  • At least 78 people have been killed in the floods.
  • Over 3,500 households have been affected.
  • The floodwaters reached over 4m high.
  • At least six children and three adults were killed when a school bus was swept away.
  • Thirteen people are still missing, including four children from the school bus disaster.
  • The floods have damaged thousands of houses, roads, schools, and health facilities.

Sources:

  • AFP (no date available)
  • Green Climate Fund (no date available)