By Joshua **Major Routes Closed Due to Heavy Snow: Residents Urged to Delay Travel**
Motorists are experiencing a challenging situation on the N3, with some stuck for over 14 hours in freezing temperatures. As they navigate this difficult night, many describe it as a “nightmare.” The South African Weather Service has now issued a Level 8 snow warning, prompting emergency responses.
The N3 Toll Route between Estcourt and Harrismith was completely closed due to severe snowfall, icy conditions, and low visibility. Authorities are advising against travel in KwaZulu-Natal, Free State, and nearby areas, as conditions remain hazardous with vehicles and trucks stranded for kilometers.
Progress is being made in clearing the roads, but slowly. Thania Dhoogra, Operations Manager at the N3 Toll Concession, confirmed that while efforts are underway, the weather continues to pose risks. She expressed gratitude to those assisting in reaching stranded motorists and clearing the roadway safely.
Heavy snowfall has impacted regions across Gauteng, Free State, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Eastern Cape. Travelers are urged to cancel plans until conditions improve.
For those trapped in the snow, authorities recommend staying in your vehicle, signaling for help, and waiting for assistance from emergency services, which are already on site.
Rescue and recovery teams are gradually advancing as snowfall eases. Graders are nearing the top of Van Reenen’s Pass, followed by emergency personnel ready to assist those in need. However, road conditions remain treacherous, with poor visibility and a high risk of additional snow and black ice as temperatures drop overnight.
Kenon Andhee, stuck for 14 hours, described the situation from his vehicle, parked atop a bridge near Harrismith. “We can’t move,” he said, noting that police are managing traffic for safety. He and four others in his car have supplies to stay warm but feel frustrated by the delay, having set out on their journey at 6 PM the previous night with hopes of reaching Richards Bay by 3 AM.
Andhee shared, “It’s a little frustrating. Our holiday plans are already impacted. I hope this gets resolved soon, but it doesn’t look promising right now.”
**KwaZulu-Natal Faces Major Disruption After Snowstorm: Residents Urged to Stay Off Roads**
This morning, the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Disaster Management Centre (PDMC) held a Joint Operations Centre (JOC) meeting to discuss relief efforts following a snowstorm that severely impacted the region. Major routes, including the R74 from Harrismith to Bergville and sections of the N3, have been blocked due to heavy snow.
The snow warning for parts of KwaZulu-Natal has escalated from Level 6 to Level 8, indicating potentially life-threatening conditions. MEC Thulasizwe Buthelezi has urged residents to avoid travel, as worsening weather is expected.
Significant snowfall has not only caused road blockages but also downed trees and interrupted essential services like water and electricity. While technical teams are working to restore these services, delays are anticipated.
Residents are cautioned against “snow chasing,” as road conditions are extremely dangerous. Heavy rains in northern KwaZulu-Natal also raise concerns about localized flooding, with disaster management teams actively providing support.
Transport Minister Barbara Creecy has advised anyone traveling between Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal to postpone their trips due to the severe weather.
**Rescue Operations in Progress**
The South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) reported that multi-disciplinary rescue operations are underway to clear snow and assist stranded motorists. However, ongoing severe weather is complicating these efforts, particularly on the N3, which is completely closed between Estcourt and Harrismith.
Police in KwaZulu-Natal have been deployed to provide food and assistance to those stranded on the N3. Colonel Robert Netshiunda confirmed that even police officers are among those stuck but are still working to ensure the safety of fellow travelers. Local businesses are preparing meals and clothing for those in need.
MEC Siboniso Duma visited the N3 Toll Route to coordinate efforts between emergency services. He praised the collaboration between public and private organizations in assisting motorists.
In Howick, a disaster center has been established at the local sports club to provide hot meals, drinks, and temporary shelter for those in need. Humanitarian groups like Gift of the Givers are also working to assess and provide aid, but many routes remain impassable.
**Difficult Conditions Persist**
Heavy snow and dangerous driving conditions have made many roads unpassable, particularly along the N3 and other regional routes. SANRAL has advised against travel to affected areas due to black ice and treacherous conditions.
With snowfall impacting communities across KwaZulu-Natal and beyond, the South African Weather Service has issued various warnings, highlighting the risk of further snow and rain. Residents have been advised to remain cautious and prepared for delays.
Authorities continue to emphasize the importance of safety and cooperation during this challenging time, urging anyone who can to help those in need while following safety protocols.
### Road Safety Advisory Amid Heavy Snowfall
The Road Freight Association (RFA) has received numerous inquiries from the public regarding hazardous road conditions due to heavy snowfall. Major routes in KwaZulu Natal, particularly the N3 and N11, are now closed.
Gavin Kelly, the RFA’s CEO, emphasized the seriousness of the situation, noting that some areas have experienced up to two meters of snow, making travel nearly impossible. He warned that many may not realize the dangers of traveling in these conditions or might underestimate the risks involved.
“This can be life-threatening if you’re unprepared and lack emergency protocols,” Kelly cautioned.
#### Closure of Ports of Entry
Additionally, several ports of entry have been closed, as announced. On Saturday, ports like Sani Pass, Boesmansnek, and Monontsha were shut down to protect travelers and officials from the dangerous conditions. Alternative ports such as Ficksburg, Caledonspoort, and Makhaleng are available for entry into Lesotho.
#### Safety Tips for Motorists
If you find yourself stranded on the road, consider these safety tips:
– **Stay in Your Vehicle**: It’s safer to remain in your car and wait for help unless assistance is visible within 100 meters.
– **Signal for Help**: Use a bright cloth (preferably red) on your radio antenna or out of the window to indicate you need help. Raise your hood after the snow stops falling.
– **Run the Engine Sparingly**: To stay warm, run your engine for about 10 minutes every hour. Ensure the exhaust pipe is clear of snow to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
– **Conserve Fuel**: Use the heater sparingly and keep a window slightly open for fresh air.
– **Stay Visible**: At night, keep your dome light on when the engine is running to help rescuers find you.
– **Stay Warm**: Use blankets, extra clothing, or anything else you have to keep warm. Move your limbs occasionally to maintain circulation.
– **Stay Hydrated**: Drink fluids to prevent dehydration, but avoid alcohol, which can lower your body temperature.
This is a developing situation, and updates will be provided as necessary. Stay safe and prepare accordingly.