Rescuers Recover Victims After School Bus Engulfed by South African Floodwaters

Ongoing Search After Deadly Flood Incident

Rescue operations have recommenced in South Africa's Eastern Cape province following a night-time pause, as emergency teams work to locate victims of a catastrophic flooding incident involving a school bus. The renewed search follows the discovery of several victims from the submerged vehicle, which was overwhelmed by rapidly rising waters near Mthatha.

Bus Swept Away Crossing Bridge

The tragedy struck Tuesday morning as the bus transported students to their educational institution. While crossing a bridge, the vehicle was suddenly caught in powerful flood currents generated by relentless heavy rainfall. Xolile Nqatha, an Eastern Cape community safety official, confirmed to Newzroom Afrika television that eight bodies, including the bus driver, have been recovered thus far. Authorities report that three students were successfully rescued on Tuesday, found clinging desperately to trees according to SABC reports.

"This remains a profoundly difficult situation, however I am quite satisfied with the emergency response mobilized," stated Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane during his Wednesday visit to the disaster site.

Significant uncertainty surrounds the precise number of children aboard the vehicle when the disaster occurred. The empty bus was subsequently located stranded on a riverbank, intensifying concerns about potential missing individuals. Recovery specialists and community volunteers continue their meticulous search of the affected waterways and surrounding terrain.

Regional Weather Crisis Escalates

This heartbreaking event forms part of a broader weather emergency impacting South Africa. Severe conditions, including torrential rains, heavy snowfall, and gale-force winds, have officially claimed at least 14 lives nationwide. These include nine flood-related fatalities and five individuals killed in a separate road accident exacerbated by the hazardous conditions.

The extreme weather has inflicted widespread disruption, leaving nearly half a million households without electrical power. State utility Eskom reports crews are working tirelessly to restore connections. Both Eastern Cape, notable as the birthplace of Nelson Mandela, and neighboring KwaZulu-Natal province bear the brunt of the severe weather, prompting authorities to close major highways to prevent further casualties.

National Response and Condolences

President Cyril Ramaphosa has extended condolences to the bereaved families while urging nationwide vigilance. "During this period of extreme winter conditions affecting our country, I appeal to all citizens to display caution, care, and cooperation," the President urged in an official statement.

As the community of Mthatha mourns and rescue teams persist in their efforts, the nation confronts the dual challenge of managing the immediate disaster response and addressing the extensive infrastructure damage wrought by the historic storms. Meteorological services continue to monitor the situation closely as the region grapples with the aftermath.