Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane concedes the province lacks critical resources like helicopters and diving units as winter floods devastate communities.
As the Eastern Cape grapples with one of the most severe weather events in its recent history, Premier Oscar Mabuyane has openly admitted the province is under-equipped to respond effectively to disasters of this magnitude. Speaking candidly to the SABC, the Premier highlighted chronic resource shortages that are compromising rescue efforts, including the dire lack of helicopters and specialised emergency units.
Cold Front Wreaks Havoc: Floods, Snowfall, and Winds Lash the Eastern Cape
Beginning on Monday, 9 June 2025, a powerful cold front swept across the province, triggering Orange Alert Level 6 warnings from the South African Weather Service (SAWS). The system brought with it disruptive snowfall, gale-force winds, and unprecedented winter flooding, affecting several districts such as OR Tambo, Joe Gqabi, Sarah Baartman, and Nelson Mandela Bay.
Entire communities have been submerged, roads destroyed, and power lines torn down as rivers swelled to dangerous levels. In an emotional recount, Mabuyane described seeing floodwaters surge up to four metres, invading homes while residents slept.
“I’ve never seen this before. Water moved 500 meters from the riverbank into houses—it’s a terrible situation,” he said.
“You Can’t Save the Eastern Cape With One Helicopter”
At the heart of the crisis is a startling lack of emergency resources. Mabuyane revealed that the entire province relies on a single helicopter stationed in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth)—an arrangement wholly inadequate during extreme weather.
“When the weather is bad, that helicopter can’t move. We need a station in Mthatha. We need a K9 unit in the east. This part of the province has the largest population, yet we are under-resourced,” Mabuyane stated.
This lack of specialised equipment and personnel has led to dangerous delays in rescue efforts, placing lives at risk as floods and landslides isolate communities.
Infrastructure Collapses and Heroic Rescues
The R61 between Mthatha and Ngcobo, as well as parts of the N2 near Kokstad, are among several routes that have been rendered impassable. The Wapadsberg Pass is blanketed in snow, and bridges and culverts in several rural municipalities have collapsed.
Despite the odds, rescue teams have been working tirelessly. In one remarkable incident, three children stranded in a tree outside Mthatha were successfully rescued amid rushing floodwaters.
Eskom Scrambles to Restore Power to Thousands
Power outages have plunged many into darkness. Eskom has made progress, restoring electricity to:
- 50,000+ customers in Umzimvubu and Elundini
- 15,000 in Port St. Johns
- 20,000 in Tsolo (King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality)
However, 164,000 customers remain without power, especially in Matatiele, Qumbu, Mthatha, and Bizana. Eskom has urged the public to treat all appliances as live and to remain patient while technicians await improved weather for access.
The Climate Crisis at Our Doorstep
The Eastern Cape’s winter deluge is unusual. The province typically braces for floods in summer, not winter. Mabuyane didn’t shy away from addressing the climate change elephant in the room.
“We now know climate change is inevitable. We must prepare for these types of events throughout the year,” he warned.
Government Response: Mobilisation and Safety Advisories
In an effort to stabilise the situation, the provincial government has deployed disaster management teams to affected districts. Residents are urged to avoid non-essential travel, especially through mountainous or low-lying areas prone to flooding.
“Our teams are on high alert. We ask the public to prioritise safety. Report any hazards immediately,” Mabuyane appealed.
The government is also partnering with local municipalities to manage relief efforts, conduct rescue operations, and address urgent infrastructure needs.
Condolences and Commitment to Recovery
While families mourn loved ones lost in the floods, Mabuyane extended heartfelt condolences.
“Families have lost kids. We are here to comfort, to support, and to pledge solidarity. The government will do all it can to assist,” he said.
As recovery continues, the focus remains on protecting lives, repairing infrastructure, and learning from the crisis to bolster future readiness.
Stay Safe:
- Monitor weather updates via official channels.
- Report downed lines, roadblocks, and missing persons to local authorities.
- Avoid crossing bridges or rivers during floods.
- Keep emergency kits ready—including food, water, flashlights, and contact lists.
Also read: Schoolchildren Swept Away Due to Snow and Floods in EC
