At least 90 people have died in South Africa's Eastern Cape province following torrential rains, according to authorities

The Eastern Cape provincial government has confirmed the identification of 80 individuals who lost their lives in the devastating floods that have severely impacted the province.

The adverse weather has impacted households in the wake of recent floods, resulting in multiple fatalities, the displacement of families, significant infrastructure damage, and disruption of livelihoods across the province, particularly in the O.R. Tambo and Amathole District Municipalities.

The death toll is at 90. The provincial government said that out of the 90 fatalities, 60 are adults and 30 are children. It has been reported that of those who died, 48 are men and 42 are women. 

The Department of Health has also completed post-mortems with 80 bodies being positively identified and 77 bodies released to families. 

"The Provincial Government remains in close contact with affected families to provide necessities and psychosocial support, with the Council of Churches also having joined in providing spiritual healing to the grieving families," provincial government spokesperson Khuselwa Rantjie said. 

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The provision of emergency relief to thousands of displaced residents in the OR Tambo and Amathole District Municipalities remains in progress. 

"About 2,686 residents were left homeless and are currently accommodated in various shelters and provided with three meals a day and all the necessities. Progress has been made in the restoration of basic services in the affected areas," Rantjie said. 

It said that in the Amathole District, water provision has resumed, with the full pumping system still being restored. However, water supply in some communities is limited, and residents are urged to continue using water sparingly, as water will not return to all affected places at once, and the system may take time to recover fully.

Water tankers from both municipalities, the Department of Water and Sanitation, and the Gift of the Givers continue with the provision of water in affected communities.

A Provincial Day of Mourning has been announced for June 19, 2025, in Decoligny Village, Mthatha.

The provincial government urges residents to report any individuals who went missing around Tuesday, June 10, in areas affected by severe weather conditions to law enforcement, as rescue operations are ongoing.

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Additionally, it appeals for continued support from the private sector, businesses, and individuals to contribute donations of food, clothing, blankets, furniture, and other essential items.

First published by IOL