The Eastern Cape Provincial Government in South Africa has confirmed that a total of 102 bodies have been recovered so far after the deadly floods that hit the province earlier in June 2025. The devastating floods, which affected several towns and villages, have left many families in deep sorrow as emergency teams continue their search for missing persons across the affected districts.
According to an official statement released by the provincial government on Monday, 30th June 2025, the latest figure represents an increase of one body from the previous update given on 26th June. The search and rescue operations are ongoing and led by coordinated teams involving the South African Police Service (SAPS), Emergency Medical Services (EMS), and other disaster management agencies.
The worst-affected area remains the O.R. Tambo District Municipality, where 78 fatalities have been confirmed. This district, which includes towns such as Mthatha, Libode, and Ngqeleni, has seen entire communities submerged under floodwaters. Amathole District has recorded 10 deaths, while Alfred Nzo and Chris Hani Districts both reported five each. Joe Gqabi and Sarah Baartman districts each lost two lives in the disaster.
Out of the 102 bodies recovered, the government revealed that 63 were adults and 39 were children, though earlier reports mistakenly listed the number of children as 63. So far, 96 of the deceased have been identified and handed over to their families for burial. The remaining six bodies are yet to be identified. Due to the extent of decomposition in some of the recovered remains, DNA testing will be required to confirm their identities, a process which may take several more weeks.
Government officials said that helicopters from both SAPS and EMS have been deployed to continue the aerial search, especially for the remaining two children who are still reported missing. These aerial units are working closely with ground teams to ensure that no victims are left behind.
In response to the disaster, the national government has officially declared the Eastern Cape a national disaster zone. The declaration enables access to additional resources, emergency funding, and assistance from national departments. Relief efforts are now focused on supporting displaced families, rebuilding infrastructure, and preventing further loss of life.
Shelters have been set up across various locations, especially in and around Mthatha in the O.R. Tambo District and Butterworth in the Amathole District. Hundreds of families who lost their homes are currently housed in these temporary centres. They are receiving daily meals, clean water, clothing, and other necessities.
Medical services are being provided by the Eastern Cape Department of Health. Mobile clinics and health workers are stationed in the shelters to treat injuries, offer mental health support, and monitor for outbreaks of waterborne diseases. Officials say the presence of healthcare teams has helped stabilize the situation.
The Department of Social Development, with the support of private partners and non-governmental organizations, has been delivering psychosocial support to bereaved families. Special attention is being given to school children who lost relatives or classmates during the floods. These services include trauma counselling, group therapy, and community-based support sessions.
In addition, the Department of Home Affairs has deployed mobile units to help affected residents replace lost identity documents and birth certificates. This step is aimed at restoring access to social grants, banking, school admissions, and other essential services. A total of 478 applications for new ID documents have been received so far, with six mobile offices operating across the two worst-hit districts.
Burial processes have already begun across the province. As of 30 June, 56 flood victims have been laid to rest. Government officials assured the public that every effort is being made to ensure all victims are buried with dignity. Support is also being given to families to assist with funeral arrangements and associated costs.
In many parts of O.R. Tambo, water supply has started to improve. Municipal authorities, the national Department of Water and Sanitation, and aid organisations such as the Gift of the Givers are working together to distribute water using tankers. However, many communities still rely on water trucks for daily needs, as damaged pipelines and infrastructure are being repaired.
The Eastern Cape floods have brought untold hardship to many communities. Homes have been destroyed, livelihoods lost, and families torn apart. Yet, the spirit of resilience remains strong among the people. Community leaders, traditional chiefs, churches, and civil society groups are all playing a role in helping the victims recover from this tragedy.
Authorities are urging residents in flood-prone areas to remain alert and heed warnings from weather agencies. Meteorological experts have predicted more rain in the coming weeks, which could increase the risk of further flooding. The public has also been advised to stay away from rivers, low-lying bridges, and informal settlements built near water bodies.
As the province mourns its dead and begins the long road to recovery, the government has promised to learn from the disaster and strengthen disaster preparedness going forward. For now, the focus remains on finding the missing, caring for the displaced, and bringing closure to grieving families.
