Snow update: Van Reenen’s still closed, other roads open

National government has issued a stern warning for drivers to remain cautious and not to travel in areas affected by snow.

September 22, 2024
Caxton Reporter 2 minutes read
Image: X/Traffic SA.

Mop-up snow operations are continuing in KZN and the Free State, with many roads cleared and those trapped in their vehicles rescued.

Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) has reported that all stranded road users along the N3 Toll Route had been assisted by noon today.

However, government has issued a stern warning for drivers to remain cautious and for citizens to refrain from travelling in the areas affected by snow, it said.

Most roads were closed due to heavy snowfall that affected Gauteng, the Free State, Mpumalanga, KZN and the Eastern Cape over the weekend.

Roads still closed:

  • N3 Toll Route: Remains closed to incoming traffic except for the section between Van Reenen and Swinburne (Montrose), for rescue and recovery operations. Progress with clearing Van Reenen’s Pass is steady but is badly affected by abandoned trucks that are being cleared.
  • Wilge Plaza and Tugela Plazas are closed to traffic.

 

Open roads:

  • The N5 from Bethlehem to Harrismith is open. However, dangerous driving conditions persist 30km from Harrismith due to melting snow. Travel on this route is strongly discouraged.
  • The R57 from Kestell to the R714 junction is open. However, conditions are dangerous.
  • The R714 from Bethlehem to Warden is open, but melting snow is causing hazardous driving conditions. Travel is strongly discouraged.
  • The N11 Route is open between Ladysmith and Volksrust, however, mist on Majuba Pass is making it difficult to drive. People are urged not to travel on this route.

Eastern Cape roads

All passes in the Eastern Cape have been opened, however the roads are slippery.

“The affected provinces are still experiencing snowfall and heavy mist and fog are limiting visibility. People are urged to remain patient and cancel travel on closed routes.

“Emergency teams continue to work on clearing the snow and restoring accessibility. Government will advise when road conditions have improved and declared safe for use.

“A team of disaster management authorities, SAPS, the South African National Roads Agency, N3 Toll Concession, SANDF and emergency services continue to respond to the situation to provide the required assistance,” said the GCIS.

Air support and Lesotho borders

GCIS said emergency provisions and medical support are being distributed in all affected provinces.

“Air support will be provided as soon as weather conditions permit.”

As the Border Management Authority and its partners temporarily closed the Sani Pass, Boesmansnek and Monontsha ports of entry to ensure travellers’ safety, those wanting to enter Lesotho are advised to use the Ficksburg Port, Caledonspoort, Makhaleng and Maseru borders.

“Those who are trapped in the snow must remain in their vehicle, signal for help, and wait for assistance from disaster management authorities and police. It is safer to stay inside your vehicle and wait for help.

“Citizens are advised not to leave their vehicles to search for assistance unless help is visible within a reasonable distance.”

Read original story on www.citizen.co.za

September 22, 2024
Caxton Reporter 2 minutes read
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