More than six people have lost their lives in severe flash flooding that struck parts of Eastern Cape Province in South Africa. The floods which was triggered by heavy rains submerged areas of Mthatha, Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, the township of Mdantsane and areas of East London.
According to figures from World Meteorological Organization (WMO), East London recorded 58 mm of rain in 24 hours.
While updating the death toll, the Eastern Cape provincial premier, Oscar Mabuyane said a total of six people died in separate incidents including a member of the police services. The policeman died conducting rescue and recovery operations.
He further stated that scores of people mainly in Mdantsane have been displaced and some roads are “completely submerged making access to distressed communities much more difficult.
The metro is working with the Eastern Cape Department of Human Settlements to render much needed assistance to those that have been displaced while motorists have been urged to avoid crossing flooded roads and bridges.
Further severe weather is possible as the South African Weather Service has issued warnings for Northern and Western Cape Provinces.