Watch: Heavy Snowfall On N3 Cause Traffic Chaos

The N3 Toll Concession (N3TC) has warned motorists using the N3 between Van Reenen Pass and Warden to be wary of heavy snowfall in the area.

At 08:15 AM, N3TC operations manager, Thania Dhoogra reported that heavy snowfall was being recorded on Van Reenen Pass.

She asked motorists to delay travel to the area if possible as visibility has become dangerously poor while the roadway has also become too slippery because of the snow.

Truckers passing through the area told SA Trucker that if the conditions persist, the road may end up being closed.

Another source told this publication that a truck jackknifed after colliding with a sedan due to the slippery conditions caused by the snow just after Eeram, Wardenbound.

No injury was reported in the accident.

Free State – Harrismith: #SNOW pic.twitter.com/ktpcob9OGQ
— TrafficSA (@TrafficSA) October 30, 2023

Dhoogra said the N3 freeway between Warden and Van Reenen Pass was affected by icy conditions, snow, rain, and freezing temperatures.

Motorists are warned of the challenging conditions that the weather brings.

Read | Trucker filmed dangerously overtaking on snow blanketed N10 between Hanover and Middelburg

Rain, sleet, and snowfall have been observed in the affected regions, heightening the risk for motorists.

As a result, the N3 Toll Concession has urged all drivers to adapt their driving behaviour to suit the existing road and weather conditions.

Safety Measures when Driving in Snow

To ensure the safety of all road users during these adverse weather conditions, the N3 Toll Concession recommends the following safety measures:

Reduce Speed: Reduce your travelling speed to account for reduced traction on slippery roads.

Increase Following Distances: Maintain a safe following distance to allow for sudden stops and reduce the risk of collisions.

Use Headlights: Keep your vehicle’s headlights switched on, especially when visibility is poor or roads are wet, to enhance visibility for yourself and others.

Avoid Overtaking: Avoid overtaking unless absolutely necessary, and only do so when it is safe and visibility is good.

Stop at Designated Areas: Ensure you only stop at designated parking areas to prevent unnecessary congestion and accidents.

Emergency Preparedness for Driving in Freezing Weather

In addition to adjusting driving habits, road users are strongly advised to be prepared for possible traffic congestion and delays, especially in the affected areas.

Dhoogra stressed the importance of having emergency supplies in vehicles, including warm clothing, blankets, water, food, necessary medications, a charged cell phone, a charger, and a flashlight.

“The safety and well-being of all travellers using the N3 Toll Route are of paramount importance.”

“The N3 Toll Concession is actively monitoring the situation and will provide updates as necessary to ensure the safety of all road users,” she said.

“It is imperative that motorists heed these warnings and take the necessary precautions to navigate these challenging weather conditions safely. Your safety and the safety of others on the road depend on it,” she warned.