The Eastern Cape Government has confirmed 102 bodies recovered after floods that hit the province on 9–10 June 2025, with search efforts still ongoing. This marks an increase of one since the previous update on 26 June.
OR Tambo District remains the most affected, accounting for 78 fatalities. Other recorded deaths include 10 in Amathole, five each in Alfred Nzo and Chris Hani, two in Joe Gqabi, and two in Sarah Baartman. Of the 102 bodies recovered, 96 have been identified and returned to their families, while six remain unidentified and may require DNA testing due to decomposition.
The victims include 32 school pupils, 63 adults and 39 children, comprising 49 men and 53 women. Search and recovery efforts remain active, with SAPS and EMS helicopters providing aerial support to aid in locating additional missing persons, including two children still unaccounted for.
The provincial government continues to provide support to displaced families through Community Care Centres in Mthatha and Butterworth, offering shelter, meals, and medical care. The Department of Health is providing essential services on-site, while the Department of Social Development, in partnership with private organisations, is delivering psychosocial support to grieving families and affected schools.
To help residents rebuild their lives, the Department of Home Affairs has deployed mobile units to assist in replacing lost identity documents and certificates.
So far, 56 flood victims have been buried across the province. The provincial government has extended its condolences to all affected families and remains committed to ensuring that all deceased are laid to rest with dignity.
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