At least nine members of a church congregation in Johannesburg, South Africa, died when a flash flood swept them away during a church service along a river on Saturday, according to officials.
The remains of two victims were found on Saturday, while seven more were located during a search and recovery mission on Sunday.
Rescuers carry the body of a flood victim which has been recovered from the Jukskei River in Johannesburg, Sunday December 4, 2022.
(Associated Press)
Churches and religious organizations often use the Jukskei River, which flows through eastern Johannesburg, for christenings and other services.
HEAVY RAIN IN BALKANS CAUSES FLOODS, DEATH SIX
“Over the last three months we have received a lot of rain on the city of Johannesburg and most of the waterways of the river are now full. Our residents, especially members of the congregation who normally practice this type of ritual, will be tempted to go to these waterways,” Johannesburg emergency services spokesman Robert Mulaudzi said at a news conference on Sunday.
“Our message to them is to be careful as and when they conduct these rituals.”
A rescue worker stands next to a body recovered from the Jukskei River in Johannesburg, Sunday 4th December 2022.
(Associated Press)
Rescuers patrol the waters of the Jukskei River in Johannesburg, Sunday, December 4, 2022.
(Associated Press)
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
The City of Johannesburg EMS had launched a “flood awareness campaign” on 21 November to “raise awareness of flood risks in the area and provide information and advice to help residents protect their homes”.
It was not immediately clear whether any other members of the congregation were missing Sunday evening.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
