President Ramaphosa Visits Flood Sites in South Africa as Death…

In Cape Town, South Africa, President Cyril Ramaphosa visits flood-affected areas after devastating floods lead to 78 confirmed dead, with the toll expected to rise. The rescue guidelines have drawn criticism due to resource shortages, and authorities continue to search for missing individuals.

CAPE TOWN, South Africa – President Cyril Ramaphosa has visited flood-stricken areas in the southeastern part of the country, where at least 78 lives have been lost due to severe flooding. The situation is still dire, as search efforts continued into a fourth day, with officials warning that the death toll may increase. Ramaphosa’s visit took him to Mthatha in the Eastern Cape, the epicenter of the devastating floods that began early Tuesday.

During his time in Mthatha, President Ramaphosa was briefed by officials from the National Disaster Management Center. One notable stop was a bridge where a school bus was swept away by the swirling waters. Tragically, six students, the bus driver, and another adult did not survive, while four children remain unaccounted for.

The atmosphere surrounding the disaster response has raised concerns. Reports indicate that the floods, resulting from an intense weather front that caused heavy rain and strong winds, caught many off guard. The head of the provincial government remarked that initial rescue efforts were hindered due to a critical lack of resources.

Oscar Mabuyane, Eastern Cape Premier, revealed that the province, home to some 7.2 million residents, has just one operational official rescue helicopter, which had to be transported from over 310 miles away. Despite this grim assessment, Ramaphosa defended the government’s actions, stating, “it could have been much worse” given the circumstances.

In summary, the Eastern Cape has been severely impacted by flooding, resulting in significant loss of life and critical challenges for rescue efforts. Quietly observing the unfolding tragedy, President Ramaphosa highlighted both the urgency of the responses and the limitations faced by the province. As search operations persist, the community and authorities are reminded of the vulnerabilities to extreme weather as they brace for potential further recoveries in the days ahead.

Original Source: www.wral.com