Following catastrophic floods in South Africa’s Eastern Cape province, at least 49 people have been confirmed dead, as officials warn the toll may rise while rescue teams continue searching for the missing.

The flooding, triggered by heavy rainfall and strong winds on Tuesday, caused widespread damage in areas like Mthatha, where homes were destroyed and entire communities displaced.

Among the casualties were six students whose school bus was swept away by floodwaters; while the bus was later found empty, four students remain missing.

Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane visited the worst-hit areas, offering condolences to grieving families and assuring them of ongoing relief support, while emphasizing the importance of vigilance and cooperation with local disaster teams.

Hundreds of residents have been forced into temporary shelters, with damage reported at over 50 schools, 20 hospitals, and numerous informal settlements.

Authorities say rescue operations will continue as the province grapples with the aftermath of one of its deadliest weather events in recent years.