Eastern Cape, June 12 (V7N) — At least 49 people have died due to devastating floods in South Africa’s Eastern Cape province, with several schoolchildren among the victims.

The British media outlet BBC reported the updated death toll on Wednesday (June 11) night, citing local authorities.

Eastern Cape Chief Minister Oscar Mabuyane described the situation as "very terrible," warning that the death toll continues to rise by the hour. "This is one of the worst disasters to hit our province. I have never seen such devastation before," he said.

Earlier, on Tuesday (June 10), tragedy struck in the town of Mthatha when a bus attempting to cross a flooded bridge was swept away by powerful currents. The bodies of six people, including four children, were later recovered from the scene.

Rescue operations are ongoing, but authorities fear the number of casualties may increase as many areas remain submerged, and several people are still missing.

Local officials have urged residents to remain cautious, as further heavy rains are forecast in parts of the region.

Source: BBC

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