Heavy winter snowfall has forced the closure of three major mountain passes in the Eastern Cape and left several motorists stranded as emergency crews mount rescue operations.
Pass closures and stranded vehicles
Transport authorities confirmed Barkly Pass on the R58, Penhoek Pass on the N6 and Boesmanshoek Pass have been shut to traffic as teams work to recover vehicles immobilised by snow and ice. The closures follow reports of significant snow accumulation on high-lying roads between Aliwal North, Jamestown and Komani.
“There are several vehicles that are stuck in the snow with people stranded in them, and we are doing everything we can to rescue them.” — Unathi Binqose, Eastern Cape Department of Transport spokesperson.
The department spokesman urged motorists to respect the closures, stressing they were implemented for safety. Officials said other mountain passes were being monitored closely as snowfall continues across the province’s high-lying areas.
Where the disruption is worst
Authorities warned that the worst conditions are affecting eastern highlands and some passes linking the interior to lower-lying towns. Snow accumulation on the surfaces, coupled with patches of ice, has made travel hazardous and, in places, impassable.
- Barkly Pass (R58) — closed to traffic as crews assist stranded motorists.
- Penhoek Pass (N6) — temporarily closed for safety; snowfall reported on the route.
- Boesmanshoek Pass — closed while emergency teams work to clear and rescue motorists.
Traffic officials reminded drivers that even where routes remain open, conditions can change quickly and that ice on the road surface is a key risk, particularly on shaded sections and high-altitude stretches.
Response and safety measures
Emergency crews and transport personnel have been prioritising rescue of motorists who became trapped overnight. The department is coordinating with local emergency services to reach affected vehicles safely and to escort convoys where possible once routes are cleared.
Motorists are advised to:
- Avoid travel in affected mountain areas unless absolutely necessary.
- Follow official road signs and closure notices.
- Keep an emergency kit in vehicles (warm clothing, food, water, a charged mobile phone and a torch).
- Check for updates from provincial transport authorities before departing.
Wider context and neighbouring provinces
Snowfall in the Eastern Cape follows similar winter disruptions elsewhere. Officials noted that the Western Cape has also recorded winter weather impact, with the Swartberg Pass near Oudtshoorn closed after a thick layer of ice made the route unsafe for general traffic. In that case, some motorists travelled through to view the snow, but traffic authorities warned people not to use closed passes.
Transport authorities stressed that closed passes are not merely inconveniences but are measures to prevent additional accidents and to allow rescue and road-clearing teams to operate without putting more people at risk.
Practical information for travellers
Commuters and long-distance travellers planning journeys through the province should plan alternatives and allow extra time. Where possible, postpone non-essential travel until road crews have cleared affected routes and authorities confirm safe passage.
| Pass | Route | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Barkly Pass | R58 | Closed |
| Penhoek Pass | N6 | Temporarily closed |
| Boesmanshoek Pass | — | Closed |
Authorities said they will continue to monitor all affected mountain passes and provide updates as conditions change. Drivers are urged to follow the provincial transport department’s announcements and local traffic authorities’ advice.
Winter weather in the highlands can produce rapidly deteriorating road conditions; timely compliance with closures and safety instructions remains the most effective way to reduce risk and assist rescue operations.
