Snow, icy roads and wet conditions have resulted in road closures and traffic incidents, prompting safety warnings for motorists and freight operators
South Africa’s freezing weather is causing problems on the roads, with snow forcing the closure of some routes while wet conditions have contributed to crashes in other parts of the country.
In KwaZulu-Natal, the R617 between Underberg and Kokstad was closed after heavy snow made the road unsafe for motorists. The route connects Howick, Bulwer, Underberg and Kokstad and is used by both local traffic and vehicles moving goods through the region.
The road closure is another challenge for motorists and freight operators already dealing with difficult winter conditions across parts of the country. When key routes are closed, trucks may have to wait for roads to reopen or take longer alternative routes, potentially affecting delivery times.
Other major routes in KwaZulu-Natal, including sections of the N3 and N2, have also been closely monitored as authorities respond to the weather.
Gauteng only started experiencing sleet after 8am on Monday morning, but accidents were recorded while it was only raining.
TrafficSA reported several crashes in Pretoria, with the wet weather making roads more slippery and reducing visibility.
The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has urged motorists to slow down and take extra care on wet roads.
“Stay safe on the roads during wet weather. Motorists are urged to exercise extra caution while driving in wet conditions. Reduce speed, maintain a safe following distance, avoid low-lying areas prone to flooding, do not drive through flooded roadways,” the RTMC said.
The warning is particularly relevant to heavy-vehicle drivers, who need more time and distance to stop when roads are wet or slippery.
The RTMC has also warned motorists not to ignore road closures or attempt to drive through snow and ice. Such conditions can quickly become dangerous, particularly on mountain passes and roads at higher altitudes.
For trucking and logistics companies, the weather means keeping a close eye on road conditions before sending vehicles out. A route that is open in the morning can become difficult or impassable as conditions deteriorate.
Meanwhile, road safety will come under discussion in the Free State this week.
Deputy Minister of Transport Mkhuleko Hlengwa is expected in Bloemfontein on Wednesday, 12 August, for a stakeholder engagement on road safety challenges affecting communities in the province.
The Free State is an important part of the country’s road freight network, with large numbers of trucks travelling through the province on long-distance routes connecting major economic centres.
The engagement comes at a time when weather conditions are adding to the risks already faced by road users, particularly heavy-vehicle operators.