Death toll in flood-hit South African province rises to 49

Devastating floods have swept through South Africa's Eastern Cape province, killing nearly 50 and leaving many missing.

Officials warn the death toll may rise.

On Wednesday, at least 49 people were confirmed dead as heavy rain and even rare snowfall struck the region early on Tuesday, overwhelming rivers and causing mudslides around Mthatha and Mthatha 주변 마을.

Eastern Cape's provincial premier described the scene as catastrophic, saying, "As we speak here, other bodies are being discovered," and that "The numbers are just escalating hour after hour."

A school bus was also washed away by floodwaters near Mthatha.

Six high school students have been confirmed dead, three others rescued from trees, and four remain missing.

The floods have damaged at least 58 schools and 20 hospitals.

Hundreds of families have been left homeless and in temporary shelters.

Weather officials warn that the extreme weather patterns could persist for several days, posing an ongoing risk.