Snow, Winds, Floods Leave Trail of Destruction in South Africa

Severe weather has wreaked havoc in KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape, leaving more than 80 homes destroyed and impacting over 500 families. In KwaZulu-Natal, heavy snowfall, strong winds, and hailstorms have damaged infrastructure and caused widespread power outages.

Meanwhile, in the Eastern Cape, devastating floods have resulted in at least seven deaths. Thirteen people — including ten children — remain missing after a minibus was swept away in Mthatha. Rescue efforts are ongoing but are being hindered by collapsed bridges, blocked roads, and continued power outages.

All flights to Mthatha have been cancelled, and the weather service has issued a Level 9 Orange Alert, warning of the risk of further flooding. Authorities are urging residents to stay alert and take shelter as needed.