Flood Hits South Africa’s Eastern Coast, Claims 22 Lives

At least 22 people have died in South Africa’s eastern coast following severe flood and strong winds, local authorities said.

The flooding affected various areas in two eastern provinces, where rare tornados were sighted, temperatures dropped, and snowfall was reported in central regions.

Nelson Mandela Bay municipality, at the epicentre of the floods, reported 11 casualties, with over 2,000 people evacuated, particularly from makeshift homes in slum areas.

Local authorities launched an appeal for donations of clothing, food and blankets.

Also, the provincial government in neighbouring KwaZulu-Natal said at least 11 people had died in and around the port city of Durban.

The situation prompted rescue efforts, as homes were destroyed, roads submerged, and power outages occurred.

The National Meteorological Institute attributed the extreme weather to a “cut-off low” pressure system that caused heavy rainfall, cold snaps, and potential hazards like hail and strong winds along the eastern Indian Ocean coast.

Four of the country’s nine provinces have issued weather alerts. KwaZulu-Natal declared a state of alert and provided assistance to those affected, including medical treatment for injuries and temporary shelters for displaced persons.

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