11 dead in South Africa after heavy rains, gale winds

By Hassan Isilow

At least 11 people were killed after gale-force winds and heavy rains lashed South Africa’s Western Cape Province for days, authorities said Tuesday.

Cape Town said eight people, including four children, had been electrocuted. Three others died from flooding.

Video on television showed massive flooding that destroyed homes, roads and other infrastructure.

“I am devastated by the loss of life. My thoughts are with their families and loved ones,” Western Cape Provincial Premier Alan Winde said in a statement.

He said families and loved ones of the deceased were being informed before further details could be shared with the media.

Heavy rains have lashed the Western Cape Province, home to Cape Town, for the past three days that led to rivers bursting their banks and flooding.

Anton Bredell, a provincial minister in Western Cape said city authorities had informed them that 6,000 residents have been identified as in dire need, but the numbers are expected to increase.