Passes reopened but hazards remain for Komani motorists
The Eastern Cape Department of Transport has confirmed that five mountain passes closed by heavy snowfall on 10 August were reopened to traffic on 11 August. Among them is the Penhoek Pass on the N6 between Komani and James Calata, a key route for commuters, long‑distance traffic and trucks carrying goods to and from the interior.
Although snowfalls have largely subsided, the department warned that wet, slippery surfaces and poor visibility continue to affect driving conditions in parts of the province. The department specifically noted that Penhoek Pass is experiencing thick fog and drizzle, which reduce visibility and increase the risk of accidents.
“Cautious driving remains the order of the day,” the department said, and urged road users to slow down, increase following distances and switch on headlights.
The other passes affected by the snowfall and subsequently reopened are:
- Barkly Pass (R58) between Khowa and Ekhephini
- Boesmanshoek Pass between Sterkstroom and Molteno
- Qacha’s Nek Pass between Matatiele and Lesotho
- Lootsberg Pass (N9) between Robert Sobukwe Town and Middelburg
Local authorities said no major weather‑related crashes were reported overnight while the passes were closed. The department thanked road users for their patience and cooperation during the closures but reiterated that conditions are not yet back to normal, especially on higher, exposed stretches.
| Pass | Route | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Barkly Pass | R58 (Khowa–Ekhephini) | Reopened; slippery surfaces reported |
| Penhoek Pass | N6 (Komani–James Calata) | Thick fog and drizzle; poor visibility |
| Boesmanshoek Pass | (Sterkstroom–Molteno) | Reopened; motorists urged to reduce speed |
| Qacha’s Nek Pass | (Matatiele–Lesotho) | Reopened; cross‑border travellers should check conditions |
| Lootsberg Pass | N9 (Robert Sobukwe Town–Middelburg) | Reopened; remain cautious on higher sections |
What Komani road users should know
For Komani residents and businesses the reopening of Penhoek Pass restores a primary link for workers, learners and commercial traffic, but the department’s advisory means journey times may remain longer than usual. The combination of spray from vehicles, unsettled weather in low‑lying areas and lingering mist towards the coast can create treacherous conditions, particularly for light vehicles and motorcycles.
- Reduce speed and increase the distance between vehicles.
- Use dipped headlights in fog and drizzle; do not use high beams.
- Allow extra time for essential travel and check for updates before departure.
Local taxi associations and freight operators normally adapt schedules during adverse weather; operators are advised to liaise with road authorities and their insurers if conditions force further delays. Emergency and roadside assistance services are likely to see increased call‑outs while the weather remains unsettled.
The department reported that low‑lying coastal areas continue to experience steady rainfall and mist, keeping temperatures low. Motorists were reminded that even where snow has cleared, traction can be poor until surfaces dry, and that black ice remains a risk on shaded or elevated sections overnight.
Road users can expect weather and road condition bulletins from the Eastern Cape Department of Transport and from SA Weather Service forecasts. Provincial and municipal road crews have been active on affected routes; drivers should follow signage and any directions from traffic officers or roadworks personnel.
Komani commuters and logistics operators should monitor conditions on the N6 and adjacent routes before travel and factor weather‑related delays into planning for the coming days.
