As of 07:30 today, February 18, 100 people – including a pregnant woman and an 11-day-old baby, had been rescued by the EC Emergency Medical Services personnel in Komani.
This follows as the town is facing its second flood in less than two weeks.
Provincial Health spokesperson, Mkhululi Ndamase, said that a search mission for a person swept away last night had resumed this morning.
“Two other people that were on top of their cars, trapped in the flood were rescued and taken to Frontier Hospital. EMS personnel from Chris Hani have been hard at work rescuing people from the affected areas, which include Silvertown and Gauteng Informal Settlements,” he said.
He added that teams from East London and Gqeberha had also been activated.
“Aeromedical services might also be used should the need arise and weather permitting,” Ndamase said.
MEC for Health, Nomakhosazana Meth, said that public healthcare facilities had not been affected by the floods.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families that have been affected by the floods. Our EMS teams have been working around the clock to ensure that people are rescued and taken to safety and health facilities. We are proud of our EMS personnel for their swift response, otherwise so many people would have been swept away or killed. They are our heroes and heroines. The people of Komani are in safe hands,” she said.
EMS teams will remain on high alert and work with the SAPS, the municipality and the private hospital.
