Four boys who became stranded near a river in Mqanduli, Eastern Cape, have been rescued after heavy rains caused dangerous flooding in the area on Tuesday, 27 October 2026.
According to reports, the boys had gone fishing when rising water levels left them trapped along the riverbanks, cutting off their route to safety. The situation prompted an emergency rescue operation, with local authorities describing the circumstances as serious. Attempts to deploy a helicopter were reportedly prevented by low-lying clouds, forcing rescue teams to work under difficult weather conditions.
The incident occurred amid widespread flooding across parts of the Eastern Cape, particularly in the OR Tambo District. Heavy rainfall has affected roads and bridges, disrupted access to some communities and damaged electricity infrastructure, resulting in power outages in several areas.
Authorities have urged residents to remain cautious as wet weather continues, warning people not to cross flooded rivers, roads or bridges because water levels and currents can change rapidly. Residents in flood-prone areas have also been advised to follow official safety updates and avoid unnecessary travel.
The successful rescue of the four boys comes as emergency and disaster management teams continue responding to the effects of heavy rainfall across the province.
Main image: SABC News
