South Africa Floods Kill at Least 49, Students Swept Away in Bus Tragedy

At least 49 people have died due to severe flooding in South Africa’s Eastern Cape, triggered by an intense cold front that brought heavy rain and snow. Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane warned the toll may rise as searches continue. Among the dead were six high school students swept away in floodwaters while on a school bus, with four still missing. Over the weekend, torrential rain also hit KwaZulu-Natal, causing widespread damage. Around 500 people were displaced, and dozens of schools and hospitals were affected. President Cyril Ramaphosa extended condolences and the national disaster team is coordinating relief efforts.