Snow, Floods, and Power Cuts: South Africa Battles Severe Winter Storm
Date: June 23, 2025 | Estimated reading time: 6 minutes
Snow : A brutal cold front has swept across South Africa’s eastern and southern regions, unleashing a combination of snow, heavy rainfall, and flooding that has left at least nine people dead and many more missing. With rescue teams racing against time and adverse weather conditions, the nation is reeling from the impact of one of the most severe winter storms in recent years.
In the Eastern Cape province, a devastating flood incident occurred when a minibus transporting schoolchildren was swept away by fast-moving waters. Local officials confirm that three children were successfully rescued, but the total number of passengers remains unknown. The vehicle has been located, though the search for the remaining missing children continues with growing urgency.
Rescue efforts have been hampered by treacherous conditions. Flooded roads, collapsed bridges, and snow-covered highways have made access to certain regions nearly impossible. The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued multiple weather alerts warning of continued disruptions across KwaZulu-Natal, Free State, and parts of the Western and Eastern Cape in the coming days.
Snow : Widespread Power Outages Add to the Crisis
Adding to the challenges, the national electricity provider Eskom reported extensive power outages across the affected provinces. At the peak of the storm, nearly 300,000 customers were left without electricity. Crews have been working non-stop to restore service, with Eskom confirming that around 136,000 households have since been reconnected.
“We’re making steady progress in restoring power despite the extreme weather,” an Eskom spokesperson stated. “Our teams are navigating difficult terrain and prioritizing high-density areas to stabilize the grid.”
Snowfall Blankets Key Routes and Rural Communities
Snowfall has been reported in several high-altitude regions, including parts of the Nolangeni area, where the N2 highway has been completely blanketed in snow. The Greater Kokstad Municipality shared images of the snowfall on social media, prompting both awe and concern as travel across major routes ground to a halt.
Officials have urged drivers to avoid non-essential travel, particularly in mountainous regions and flood-prone zones. Emergency services are being overwhelmed with calls related to stranded motorists, fallen trees, and blocked roads.
Presidential Appeal for Unity and Caution
President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the nation, expressing condolences to the families affected by the tragedy and encouraging unity in the face of crisis. “This is a time where we need to take care of ourselves in our homes and reach out to neighbours and friends who need help of any kind,” he said.
He also emphasized caution for those traveling or engaging in outdoor activities: “We must be vigilant when venturing out, especially to witness snowfall or flooded rivers. The beauty of nature can quickly turn perilous.”
Authorities Continue Relief and Monitoring Operations
Local disaster management teams have been deployed to assess damage, distribute aid, and assist in evacuation procedures. Shelters have been opened in parts of the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal to accommodate displaced residents. Relief organizations, including the South African Red Cross, are on-site providing food, blankets, and medical assistance.
Forecasts indicate that the cold front will linger for at least another 48 hours. Authorities are urging all residents to stay indoors where possible and heed official advisories. Updates and emergency numbers are being shared via SMS and national broadcasts.
Looking Ahead: A Need for Climate Resilience
This extreme weather event has reignited calls for improved disaster preparedness and climate resilience in South Africa. With changing climate patterns, the country is experiencing more frequent and intense storms. Urban infrastructure, particularly drainage systems and emergency response networks, need urgent upgrades to withstand future crises.
As the nation copes with the aftermath, community solidarity, timely information sharing, and proactive governance will play critical roles in recovery.
Related articles:
- Weather Alerts Continue Across Southern Africa
- How Climate Change Is Shaping South Africa’s Weather Patterns
- Official Source: CGTN Africa
Photo credit: Greater Kokstad Municipality
