Heavy snow disrupts travel in parts of Eastern Cape
Authorities have urged motorists to delay non-essential travel as snow, heavy rain, fog and icy conditions make roads hazardous across parts of the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal.
The Eastern Cape Department of Transport urges motorists to exercise extreme caution as heavy snow, rain and poor visibility continue to affect several routes across the province.
Spokesperson Unathi Binqose says active snowfall has been reported on the R56 between Matatiele and Mount Fletcher, while the R58 between Lady Grey and Ekhepini is experiencing heavy snow, fog and wet road surfaces.
“ Our road maintenance and traffic law enforcement teams remain on high alert as severe winter weather continues to affect several parts of the province.
“We are currently monitoring active snowfall. Although no crashes have been reported, road surfaces remain wet and extremely slippery. We appeal to all motorists to postpone non-essential travel where possible.”
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In neighbouring KwaZulu-Natal, traffic authorities have also warned motorists to exercise extreme caution as heavy rain, snow and icy conditions impact parts of the province.
An Orange Level 6 warning for disruptive rain remained in effect along the south coast on Wednesday.
Traffic officials in KwaZulu-Natal are urging motorists to slow down and drive with caution.
Forecasters say disruptive snow over the south-western parts could turn roads to ice, leading to traffic disruptions.
The N3 Toll Concession says visibility will be poor, and roads will get slippery, especially on Van Reenen’s Pass.
Meanwhile, the Road Traffic Management Corporation has advised motorists to observe all road safety measures and be careful.
"Snowfall, icy conditions, and freezing temperatures are forecast to affect motorists travelling through the Eastern Cape Highlands, the Drakensberg region of KwaZulu-Natal, and routes towards Lesotho,” warned spokesperson Simon Zwane.
“Motorists are advised to avoid unnecessary travel in affected areas and to remain alert for possible road closures, reduced visibility, and slippery roads.”
