Eastern Cape flooding death tolls rises to 103
The provincial government said that the majority of the victims were from the OR Tambo and Amathole districts, with more than 30 children among the dead.
Forensic Pathology Services along with Emergency Medical Services (EMS) practitioners carry a stretcher after finding bodies in a dwelling near Mthatha on 12 June 2025. Picture: EMMANUEL CROSET/AFP
JOHANNESBURG - The death toll from the devastating floods in the Eastern Cape has climbed to 103, as search and recovery operations continue in the hardest-hit districts.
The provincial government said that the majority of the victims were from the OR Tambo and Amathole districts, with more than 30 children among the dead.
Hundreds of families remain displaced and many communities are still without homes or basic services, weeks after the torrential rains.
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Officials said that at least 103 people had now been confirmed dead, including 32 school-aged children, after floodwaters swept through parts of the Eastern Cape.
Most of the victims were from the OR Tambo district, where Mthatha and surrounding villages have suffered widespread damage to homes, schools, roads and bridges.
The provincial government said that more than 6,000 households had been impacted, with over 4,000 people left homeless.
A massive relief operation is underway, with food, clothing and temporary shelters being provided, and plans to build over 1,000 temporary homes already in motion.
While 98 bodies have been identified and collected, search teams continue to scour rivers and debris for the remaining victims.
Officials have again thanked communities and private donors for their support and assured residents that recovery and rebuilding efforts will continue in the weeks and months ahead.