Snowfall across parts of the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal has subsided, allowing authorities to reopen several major routes that were closed due to hazardous weather conditions. However, officials have warned motorists to remain vigilant as wet roads, thick fog and drizzle continue to pose risks.
All mountain passes in the Eastern Cape that were shut for most of Monday because of heavy snowfall have reopened to traffic.
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Despite the improvement in weather conditions, road users have been advised to exercise extreme caution as roads remain slippery.
The Penhoek Pass on the N6 between Komani and James Calata remains a concern, with thick fog and persistent drizzle reducing visibility and creating challenging driving conditions.
Low-lying areas extending towards the coast are still experiencing cold weather, steady rainfall and mist, further complicating travel.
No major weather-related crashes reported overnight
Transport authorities welcomed the overnight report of no major weather-related crashes.
“We thank road users for their understanding, patience and cooperation during these adverse conditions,” officials said.
Meanwhile, KwaZulu-Natal Transport and Human Settlements MEC Siboniso Duma said road traffic inspectors and grading teams were already monitoring major routes and areas that could experience further snowfall.
In an update issued on Tuesday morning, Duma said weather conditions remained overcast from Cedara towards Midway along the N3, while drizzle was being experienced from Harrismith towards Van Reenen.
The N11 Amajuba Pass remained open in both directions on Tuesday, while snow was beginning to clear in the Memel area. Bothas Pass to Memel had also been declared clear.
Authorities have appealed to motorists travelling through affected regions to continue exercising caution, reducing speed and maintaining safe following distances as weather conditions remain unpredictable.
- Snowfall in parts of the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal has subsided, allowing major routes closed due to hazardous conditions to reopen.
- All mountain passes in the Eastern Cape that were closed due to heavy snowfall have reopened to traffic.
- The Penhoek Pass on the N6 between Komani and James Calata still has thick fog and drizzle, causing reduced visibility and challenging driving conditions.
- No major weather-related crashes were reported overnight despite ongoing slippery roads and poor weather conditions.
- KwaZulu-Natal Transport and Human Settlements MEC Siboniso Duma reported continued monitoring of major routes and noted that the N11 Amajuba Pass and Bothas Pass to Memel remained open with snow clearing in the Memel area.
