Introduction
South Africa floods is grappling with one of its harshest weather disasters in recent history as heavy floods and snowfall wreak havoc across Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal provinces. The catastrophic winter storm has already claimed at least 12 lives, left nearly 500,000 homes without power, and led to the closure of several major roads. Among the most heart-wrenching incidents is the sweeping away of a school minibus by rising floodwaters.
School Bus Swept Away in Eastern Cape
In a chilling development, a minibus carrying schoolchildren was swept away in Eastern Cape’s floodwaters. According to provincial spokesperson Khuselwa Rantjie, only three children have been rescued so far. The number of children on board remains unknown, and search and rescue operations have been suspended overnight but are expected to resume promptly on Wednesday South Africa floods.
Separately, the bodies of seven individuals washed away by floodwaters have been recovered in the province’s OR Tambo district. These tragedies highlight the storm’s devastating reach and the urgent need for disaster preparedness in vulnerable regions.
Deaths and Road Accidents
Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane issued a statement urging residents to remain vigilant, calling the storm “a devastating reminder of nature’s force.” Five more fatalities occurred when a minibus taxi overturned while trying to avoid a fallen tree, killing five and injuring two near East London.
Snowstorm Paralyzes KwaZulu-Natal
KwaZulu-Natal province has also borne the brunt of the storm. Snowfall exceeding 30cm (12 inches) has stranded trucks on major highways, causing significant traffic congestion. Transport Minister Siboniso Duma confirmed that grader machines were deployed to clear the roads. The freezing temperatures and snow are highly unusual for the region, intensifying the storm’s impact on daily life.
Massive Power Outages Across Provinces
South Africa’s state-owned power company Eskom reported widespread power cuts. Over 300,000 homes across 14 towns in Eastern Cape and another 196,000 in 24 KwaZulu-Natal areas have been affected. According to Eskom spokesperson Daphne Mokwena, restoration efforts are ongoing, but poor weather is hampering progress.
Climate Change and South African Weather Extremes
While winter snowfall is not entirely rare in South Africa, this level of disruption is unusual. Meteorologist Lehlohonolo Thobela has warned of strong offshore winds and rough seas that pose additional threats to coastal regions. Climate scientists point to global warming as a driver behind the increasingly erratic and severe weather patterns affecting Southern Africa.
Earlier this year, between April 30 and May 2, flash floods damaged around 4,500 homes and injured 18 people. The repeated and intensified nature of these disasters underscores the urgent need for climate adaptation strategies.
Government Response and Public Reactions
Authorities have closed major roads in high-risk areas to prevent further casualties. Residents have been urged to stay indoors and avoid flooded zones. Emergency services remain on high alert as both provinces brace for continued weather disruptions.
“We urge everyone to exercise extra caution in areas prone to flooding,” said Premier Mabuyane. The government is also working with Eskom and weather services to manage the crisis more effectively.
Conclusion: A Wake-Up Call for Climate Resilience
The South African floods and snowstorm of June 2025 serve as a grim reminder of the real-world consequences of climate change. As rescue efforts continue and infrastructure is slowly restored, the country must also prepare for a future of more frequent and intense weather events.
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