A truck was blown over on Van Reenen Pass after powerful wind gusts battered the busy N3 corridor between KwaZulu-Natal and the Free State, raising serious safety concerns for motorists and long-distance truck drivers.
According to N3 Toll Concession (N3TC), wind speeds exceeding 70 km/h are currently being recorded on the pass, with some gusts reportedly reaching as high as 96 km/h on Wednesday night.
The severe crosswinds caused major disruption along the route after a truck was blown over, highlighting the danger facing especially high-sided and lightly loaded vehicles travelling through the area.
Authorities have warned that empty tautliners, curtain-side trailers, empty containers, caravans, and other light trailers are particularly vulnerable on exposed sections of the pass, where sudden gusts can destabilise vehicles within seconds.
N3TC’s Thania Dhoogra urged road users to take all warnings seriously and to approach high-lying areas with extreme caution.
Truck drivers travelling between Ladysmith and Harrismith are being advised to slow down, switch on headlights, avoid sudden steering movements, and maintain a safe following distance.
Read | Heavy Snowfall and Winds Force Closure of Major Routes as Cold Front Grips South Africa
N3TC warned that the strong winds could lead to hazardous driving conditions, flying debris, traffic congestion, delays, and even temporary road closures if conditions worsen.
Truckers warned not to take chances
Drivers operating high-sided combinations or hauling light loads are being encouraged to consider parking off safely if winds become too dangerous.
Experienced truckers know that Van Reenen Pass can quickly become deadly during severe weather, especially when crosswinds hit broadside against empty trailers and containers.
What motorists should do during strong winds
- Reduce speed immediately when entering exposed areas
- Keep both hands firmly on the steering wheel
- Avoid harsh braking or sudden lane changes
- Leave extra following distance between vehicles
- Be cautious when overtaking trucks and buses
- Park off safely if the vehicle becomes unstable
Truckers and motorists are also advised to carry blankets, warm clothing, medication, drinking water, food, torches, and cellphone chargers in case they become stranded for extended periods.
Road Incident Management System teams and emergency services remain deployed along the N3 Toll Route to assist with traffic management and incident response as the adverse weather continues.
With severe weather already disrupting major routes across parts of South Africa, authorities say drivers should avoid unnecessary travel and monitor conditions closely before heading onto the pass.
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