The national government has issued a strong advisory urging drivers to exercise caution and discouraging travel in areas impacted by recent snowfall.
While many roads have been cleared and motorists who were stranded have been rescued, cleanup operations are ongoing. The Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) confirmed that all stranded road users along the N3 Toll Route were assisted by midday Sunday.
Despite these efforts, authorities warn that dangerous conditions persist in many regions, and travel in affected areas is not recommended.
Heavy snowfall over the weekend led to road closures in several provinces, including Gauteng, Free State, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Eastern Cape.
Current Road Status
N3 Toll Route: Closed to incoming traffic, except for the section between Van Reenen and Swinburne (Montrose), which is being used for rescue and recovery operations. Efforts to clear Van Reenen Pass are underway, as abandoned trucks continue to pose challenges.
Wilge and Tugela Plazas: Currently closed to traffic.
N5 (Bethlehem to Harrismith): Open but hazardous conditions exist 30 km from Harrismith due to melting snow. Travel is strongly discouraged.
R57 (Kestell to R714 Junction): Open but dangerous driving conditions are reported. The R714 from Bethlehem to Warden is also open, though melting snow is creating hazards.
N11 Route: Open between Ladysmith and Volksrust; however, mist in Majuba Pass is making driving difficult. Motorists are advised against traveling on this route.
All passes in the Eastern Cape have reopened, but the government continues to urge caution due to slippery conditions.
Ongoing Weather Challenges
Affected provinces are still experiencing snowfall, heavy mist, and fog, which limit visibility. The public is urged to remain patient and avoid travel on closed routes.
“Emergency teams are actively working to clear snow and restore accessibility. The government will provide updates when road conditions improve and are deemed safe for use,” the statement noted.
A coordinated response involving disaster management authorities, the South African Police Service (SAPS), the South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL), the N3 Toll Concession (N3TC), the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), and emergency services is ongoing to address the situation.
The government also expressed gratitude for the support from humanitarian organizations, which are assisting with emergency provisions and medical support in the affected provinces. Air support will be deployed as weather conditions allow.
District Disaster Management Centres are providing continuous updates on relief operations. The public is encouraged to stay informed by tuning in to local radio stations and following government social media channels for the latest news on road closures and relief efforts.
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