Eastern Cape floods: Four boys rescued after being trapped on riverbanks

Emergency teams responded to the situation in Mqanduli amid severe weather conditions affecting communities across the eastern parts of the province. The boys’ escape routes were reportedly cut off as water levels rose, leaving them stranded on the riverbanks.

Rescue operation launched as water levels rose

The incident unfolded after the boys went fishing and became trapped by the swollen river. Local authorities alerted emergency services, who travelled to the area to carry out the rescue.

King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality spokesperson Olwethu Mabovula described the situation as serious while emergency medical services made their way to eMqanduli.

“The situation that we have now is very dire for four boys who were apparently going fishing, but they ended up being trapped on the riverbanks. I spoke to EMS services; they were on their way to eMqanduli to address the situation,” Mabovula said.

A helicopter could not be used during the operation because low-lying clouds affected conditions in the area. Despite that limitation, emergency teams proceeded with efforts to reach the boys, who were later rescued.

Flooding disrupts roads and communities

The rescue came against a wider backdrop of flooding and damage following days of heavy rainfall in the Eastern Cape. The OR Tambo District Municipality was among the areas most affected, with authorities assessing damage and monitoring conditions.

In parts of Mqanduli and Mthatha, swollen rivers and overflowing bridges have made travel hazardous. Flooded roads and waterlogged communities have disrupted daily life, while some residents have faced electricity outages linked to damage caused by the severe weather.

Mabovula said the municipality was closely monitoring the situation as the rainfall continued. The area is prone to disasters, making ongoing assessments important while river levels and road conditions remain unsafe.

“Heavy rains have caused some bridges in Mqanduli and other areas in Mthatha to overflow, preventing people from crossing safely,” Mabovula said.

Residents warned to avoid flooded crossings

Authorities have urged residents and travellers to exercise extreme caution while conditions remain unsettled. The warnings are particularly important for people living in low-lying or flood-prone areas, where rising water can quickly make roads and bridges impassable.

• Avoid flooded roads and bridges.
• Never attempt to cross rising water.
• Use alternative routes where possible.
• Consider postponing travel to or from affected areas until conditions improve.
• Treat fallen power lines as dangerous and report them immediately.

Even shallow-looking floodwater can conceal damage beneath the surface or carry enough force to sweep people and vehicles away. For that reason, residents are being advised not to test crossings when water is moving across a road or bridge.

The municipality also urged residents to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions. At the time of the warning, there were no reports of fatalities, while rescue teams remained on high alert.

Power outages reported in several areas

Severe weather has also affected electricity infrastructure. Eskom reported damage to power lines, resulting in outages in several areas. Municipal electricians were working to restore electricity where possible.

Residents were warned not to approach fallen power lines. Damaged infrastructure can remain live even when it appears inactive, and reporting it promptly allows the relevant teams to secure the area and begin repairs.

The combination of flooded roads, overflowing bridges and power disruptions has added to the pressure on communities already dealing with persistent rainfall. It has also made access more difficult for residents, travellers and emergency responders.

Authorities continue monitoring conditions

King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality said it would continue monitoring the weather and providing updates as conditions developed. Forecasts indicated that the adverse weather was expected to clear by Thursday.

Until conditions improve, the rescue of the four boys serves as a reminder of how quickly ordinary activities near rivers can become dangerous during heavy rain. Rising water can cut off familiar routes without warning, leaving people dependent on emergency services for help.

Residents in affected parts of Mqanduli, Mthatha and surrounding areas have been encouraged to remain cautious, avoid unnecessary travel and follow local warnings while the effects of the Eastern Cape floods continue to be assessed.