Death toll from Eastern Cape floods rises to 49

The death toll from the devastating floods in the Eastern Cape has climbed to 49, Premier Oscar Mabuyane confirmed during a media briefing on Wednesday, describing the situation as one of the most painful tragedies to hit the province in recent years. The floods, driven by relentless rain, strong winds, and landslides, have wreaked havoc, particularly across the OR Tambo and Amathole District Municipalities. Mabuyane confirmed that 39 deaths had occurred in the OR Tambo District alone, including schoolchildren who were swept away in a flooded minibus taxi while en route to school. Phemelo speaks to OR Tambo District Municipality Mayor, Mesuli Ngqondwana.