Truck drivers and motorists travelling on the N3 Toll Route have been urged to exercise extreme caution after wind speeds exceeding 100km/h were recorded on Van Reenen Pass on Monday afternoon.
According to the N3 Toll Concession, the dangerous wind conditions prompted authorities to implement traffic control measures along the pass between Ladysmith in KwaZulu-Natal and Harrismith in the Free State.
The measures were introduced for the safety of road users as severe weather conditions continue to impact several parts of South Africa.
Authorities warned that the strong crosswinds are placing additional strain on drivers, particularly operators of high-profile vehicles such as trucks, buses, tankers, and delivery vehicles travelling through the mountainous route.
“Please reduce speed, heed warnings and follow official instructions. Extra caution is required by all drivers on the N3 Toll Route tonight and tomorrow as the SA Weather Service has advised that these conditions are likely to continue into tomorrow,” said Thania Dhoogra.
The warning comes amid widespread severe weather conditions affecting major transport routes across the country. Earlier on Monday, multiple trucks were reportedly blown over by strong winds in parts of the Western Cape, including along the N2 near Sir Lowry’s Pass, Riversdale, and between Arabella and Kleinmond.
Truckers travelling along Van Reenen Pass are being advised to reduce speed, maintain safe following distances, and avoid sudden steering movements due to the risk posed by powerful side winds.
Drivers operating empty trailers or light loads are considered especially vulnerable during extreme wind conditions.
Motorists requiring emergency assistance or wanting to report incidents on the N3 Toll Route between Cedara in KwaZulu-Natal and Heidelberg in Gauteng can contact the N3 Helpline on 0800634357.
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