Heart-rending tales of flood terror
Three Mthatha children tell of harrowing six-hour ordeal clinging to trees in freezing water as fellow pupils washed away
18 June 2025 - 12:23
“I begged her to cling to the tree. I urged her not to give up, but she was screaming and shouting there was a snake in the water and it was coming for her, and then she was gone.”..
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
There’s never been a more important time to support independent media.
From World War 1 to present-day cosmopolitan South Africa and beyond, the Sunday Times has been a pillar in covering the stories that matter to you.
For just R80 you can become a premium member (digital access) and support a publication that has played an important political and social role in South Africa for over a century of Sundays. You can cancel anytime.
Already subscribed? Sign in below.
Questions or problems? Email helpdesk@timeslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00.