South Africa: 6 fatalities and at least 50 are missing due to building collapse

A five-story building collapsed on Monday 6^th of May in the southern coastal city of George at South Africa. The incident caused the death of at least 6 people while over 50 are still missing. Due to local officials, efforts are still ongoing to locate those who are missing.

The rescue operation is anticipated to last between four to five days and the area has been sealed off to the public for safety reasons while as for the cause of the collapse is not known yet, but an investigation is currently underway. It should be mentioned that South African President Cyril Ramaphosa extended condolences to the families affected by the tragedy and urged a thorough investigation to provide closure and prevent similar incidents in the future.

In addition, the rescuers stated that they have contacted 11 survivors within the debris of the building. Overnight, more than 100 rescuers, aided by sniffer dogs and heavy lifting equipment, worked to locate, and extricate those trapped in the rubble. The rescue teams worked by hand on site in shifts to clear concrete blocks and debris. Colin Deiner, chief director for disaster management, pointed the potential for finding survivors as the operation progresses.