The N12 near the R555 Ogies/Blackhill off-ramp in Mpumalanga remains closed on Monday following a serious collision involving a fuel tanker and a log truck in dense fog conditions that severely reduced visibility along the route.
The crash occurred during the early morning hours between Emalahleni and Kendal, where motorists reported thick mist covering large sections of the highway. Following the collision, the fuel tanker burst into flames, prompting the closure of the N12 as emergency services rushed to the scene.
Traffic officials, firefighters and recovery teams are currently working at the scene while authorities assess the damage and investigate the cause of the crash.
Initial reports from the scene suggested that both drivers involved in the first collision could not immediately be located. However, this information has not been confirmed by authorities and remains unverified.
The dense fog that blanketed the area throughout the morning created dangerous driving conditions for motorists and truck drivers using the busy freight route.
As emergency responders dealt with the first crash, a secondary collision was reported at approximately 09:45 on the N12 near Phola towards the R555. Early information indicates that two trucks and at least three other vehicles were involved.
The extent of injuries and whether there were any fatalities in either crash remains unknown at this stage.
Motorists are being urged to avoid the area and use alternative routes while recovery operations continue. Significant delays are expected as emergency services clear the roadway and conduct their investigations.
Authorities have advised road users travelling through Mpumalanga to exercise extreme caution, reduce speed and switch on headlights when driving through areas affected by heavy fog.
Further updates will be published once official information becomes available.
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