Heavy Snowfall and Winds Force Closure of Major Routes as Cold Front Grips South Africa

A significant cold front sweeping across South Africa has led to widespread snowfall, gale-force winds, and the closure of several key mountain passes and highways, prompting national and provincial authorities to issue urgent travel advisories and warnings.

Eastern Cape: Snow Disruptions Prompt Multiple Road Closures

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued an Orange Level 6 warning for disruptive snowfall across large parts of the Eastern Cape, including the Joe Gqabi District Municipality, Enoch Mgijima Local Municipality (Molteno), and Matatiele. In response to treacherous road conditions, the South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) has announced road closures affecting both freight and passenger vehicles.

According to Mbulelo Peterson, SANRAL’s Eastern Cape Provincial Head:

“The Lootsberg Pass on the N9 (km 59 to km 65) and the Wapadsberg Pass on the R61 (km 11 to km 16) have been closed to heavy goods vehicles. Light motor vehicles may proceed with caution.”

Alternate routes have been provided to assist affected motorists. Travellers heading south on the N9 are advised to use the R63 via Pearston and connect to the N10 at Cookhouse, while those heading north should reroute from Middelburg via the N10.

Additional affected roads in the Eastern Cape include:

• N9 near Middelburg: Traffic moving slowly under traffic officer supervision.
• R61 between Graaff Reinet and Nxuba: Controlled movement under supervision.
• R58 (Elliot to Barkly East): Open only to small vehicles; heavy vehicles are prohibited.
• N6 (Queenstown to Jamestown): Passable but snowing; caution advised.
• R58 (Lady Grey to Barkly East): No snow reported as of this morning.

KwaZulu-Natal: N2 and R603 Fully Closed Due to Heavy Snow

In KwaZulu-Natal, MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Siboniso Duma, confirmed the complete closure of the N2 between Kokstad and Port Shepstone, as well as the R603 between Tacoma and Reit, citing dangerous snow accumulation and stranded vehicles.

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“We have decided to close these roads in the interest of public safety. Trucks are already stuck, and congestion is increasing. We urge motorists and snow seekers to avoid the area entirely,” said Duma.

Provincial emergency response measures have been activated, including the deployment of over 10 motor graders and RTI traffic teams to priority routes such as the N2, N3, R617, and Mooi River corridor. The province is currently under three Level 6 warnings for snow, torrential rainfall, and strong winds.

Duma further stated:

“Our teams are working closely with local municipalities and the South African Weather Service to ensure a coordinated and swift response.”

National Routes: Public Advised to Exercise Extreme Caution

Across national routes, authorities are appealing to motorists to reconsider or delay travel plans. Thania Dhoogra, Chief Operating Officer of the N3 Toll Concession, warned:

“Weather conditions may lead to road closures, delays, and increased risk to motorists. Travellers are urged to equip themselves with emergency supplies and check route status before departure.”

The current cold front has brought picturesque snow to parts of South Africa, but its impact on transport infrastructure is severe. Authorities at all levels continue to monitor conditions closely and urge the public to prioritise safety above all. Updates will be issued as the situation evolves.