NELSPRUIT – More heavy rains predicted in the province and other parts of the country may affect driveability on most roads.
Community safety, security and liaison MEC Mr Vusi Shongwe has called on motorists to drive with great care so that they are not adversely affected.
Shongwe’s warning comes after the closure of R35 Road between Middelburg and Bethal. The road has since been opened for traffic with only one lane working due to repairs following damage by the heavy rain over the weekend.
Crocodile Bridge in Nkomazi Municipality and the road between Tonga and Phiva has been closed because it is overflowing. The road between Driekoppies and Schoemansdal has also been closed because the Mlumati River is overflowing.
“Motorists need to prioritise their own safety by among others ensuring that their wipers are working properly, maintain safe following distance and also ensuring that their tyres are in good condition. Excessive speed in wet weather can be fatal and therefore motorists need to take it easy on the road when it is raining,” the MEC said.
He added motorists should keep their headlights on in order to enhance their visibility. Drivers also need to reduce speed and remain extremely alert in order to reach their destinations safely.
Shongwe further warned communities to avoid crossing overflowing rivers and streams.” Parents, also need to ensure their children are safe when they go schools during this rainy period.”
He further called on law enforcement to clamp down on motorists who were not obeying traffic rules and regulations and were needlessly putting other road users’ lives in danger.
“Let us be more vigilant and patient in order to avoid unnecessary accidents,” the MEC said. He has further advised motorists to verify weather conditions at locations they intended travelling to and to also allowfor extra time to complete their trips.
The rainy weather is expected to continue until Friday in Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape Limpopo and Gauteng provinces.
