It’s Wednesday, 6 May 2026, and this is News Bite, your fast, reliable update on South Africa and the world, with Marcelle Gordon.
Severe weather warnings remain active across large parts of South Africa, with heavy rain, flooding, strong winds and snow reported in several provinces. Fatalities have been confirmed in the Northern Cape and North West, while schools in affected areas of the Western Cape and Taung have been closed as disaster management teams remain on high alert.
The National Taxi Alliance says fare increases are unavoidable after fuel prices surged sharply at midnight. The organisation says rising transport costs will place further pressure on commuters and has called for greater government support for the taxi industry.
Health authorities continue monitoring the hantavirus situation linked to the cruise ship MV Hondius, where more than 140 people remain isolated on board. South Africa remains central to the response after a British passenger from the vessel was admitted to a Sandton hospital. The WHO says the broader public risk remains low and continues to urge calm.
Oil prices reacted sharply after reports that the United States and Iran may be nearing an agreement following tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. The United States has also halted its planned naval escort operation in the region amid ongoing negotiations.
Social Development Minister Sisisi Tolashe has denied misleading Parliament over vehicle donations linked to the ANC Women’s League and has filed an affidavit with the Parliamentary Ethics Committee.
We are also keeping an eye on the seizure of cocaine worth R13 million at Durban harbour, renewed scrutiny two years after the deadly George building collapse, and Eskom’s plans to act against municipalities with unpaid debt exceeding R110 billion.
SPORT
Orlando Pirates have reduced Mamelodi Sundowns’ lead in the Betway Premiership title race after defeating Stellenbosch. Arsenal have also booked their place in the UEFA Champions League final after overcoming Atletico Madrid at the Emirates Stadium.
That’s your News Bite.