At least 51 people have been killed in flooding in South Africa. A local official said today, as President Cyril Ramaphosa flew into the eastern region of the country.
Southern and eastern parts of the country have been badly hit by torrential rain in the last few days.
More than 1,000 people have been displaced. According to President Cyril Ramaphosa, who has flown into the region to visit the affected areas.
More flooding and strong winds are expected in coastal areas and a severe weather warning is still in place.
Pictures from the region show that parts of some roads have been washed away and buildings have been destroyed.
The death toll jumped from 33 yesterday, as rescuers continued to comb debris for those who might be trapped underneath landslides. A six month old baby and a young child are among the dead.
In addition to collapsed buildings and flooded roads, sewer lines were blocked and electricity pylons had toppled over.
South African military personnel have been dispatched to help rescue and evacuation efforts.
The South African Weather Services warned that more heavy rain and gale force winds were expected, which could threaten low-lying bridges and roads.
“Unfortunately the numbers have risen to 51. In previous years we have tried to remove people from low-lying areas. We will continue with negotiations in some of the areas where we believe the long-term solution is people moving out.” A regional minister, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, told SA FM radio.