UMTHATHA - President Cyril Ramaphosa says the effects of climate change are real and apparent, as can be seen in the Eastern Cape.
The president visited the province, where almost 80 people have been killed and thousands others displaced by floods.
Search and rescue operations continue in different parts of the province as some people are reported missing including school children. The missing pupils are among the 13 that were travelling in a scholar transport, when the driver attempted to cross a flooded bridge and were swept away.
Schools and homes have also been destroyed and infrastructure damaged. Affected communities are now desperate for relief.
Ramaphosa has applauded search and rescue teams for their rapid response in assisting those in need. He also thanked forensic teams for their dedication and rapid turn-around time in identifying the deceased.