Mbombela — The Mpumalanga provincial government has urged motorists to exercise increased caution on the province's roads after continuing rainfall and cold weather made conditions treacherous in parts of the region.
Call for vigilance amid wet, icy roads
The MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison, Jackie Macie, warned drivers to remain on high alert while travelling, particularly during early-morning and evening journeys and when passing through high-lying areas. The appeal follows several national weather advisories and local reports of slippery roads caused by rain and icy patches.
Provincial officials say the combination of wet tarred surfaces and low temperatures increases stopping distances and reduces vehicle control, raising the risk of collisions and pedestrian injuries.
Weather warnings and local impact
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued warnings for parts of the country affected by cold fronts, with rain, snow and icy conditions reported in various regions. In neighbouring provinces, emergency services responded to multiple collisions during similar weather conditions.
In Mpumalanga, municipal road teams and traffic authorities have been asked to step up inspections of vulnerable passes and high-lying routes, and to place warning signs where necessary. Residents in informal settlements and along low-lying roads near rivers were reminded to monitor local alerts should conditions deteriorate.
Practical safety measures for motorists and pedestrians
Motorists are being asked to adopt defensive driving habits and to prepare their vehicles for cold, wet weather. The provincial advisory includes the following practical measures:
- Reduce speed and increase following distance to allow more time to stop on slippery surfaces.
- Use dipped headlights in low visibility and avoid sudden steering inputs that can trigger skids.
- Check tyres for adequate tread and correct pressure; ensure brakes and lights are working before departure.
- Avoid unnecessary travel during peak cold periods or when heavy rain is forecast, particularly on mountain passes and high-lying roads.
- Be alert for pedestrians and vulnerable road users, who may be harder to see in low light and rain.
| Risk | Suggested action |
|---|---|
| Slippery tarred roads | Reduce speed; keep safe following distance |
| Patches of ice in high-lying areas | Avoid sudden braking; use low gears on descents |
| Poor visibility (rain, mist) | Use headlights; pull over safely if visibility drops |
Emergency services and reporting
Local traffic departments, municipal emergency teams and SAPS have been asked to increase patrols and to coordinate with each other where conditions are most severe. Members of the public who observe hazardous road conditions or stalled vehicles that may pose a danger are urged to report these to their nearest traffic centre so that signs or assistance can be dispatched.
Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA) and other emergency medical teams nationally have reported multiple incidents linked to the cold front, underscoring how quickly conditions can deteriorate.
Tourism and local economy
Mpumalanga’s tourism sector, which includes high-lying routes used by visitors to scenic areas, can be affected by closures or difficult driving conditions. Operators and accommodation providers are advised to communicate clearly with guests about road conditions and to check weather updates before planning transfers.
For residents, the coming days are a reminder that simple precautions — checking vehicle lights and tyre condition, carrying a charged phone and a warm layer, and allowing extra travel time — can reduce the likelihood of accidents and keep communities moving safely.
Provincial authorities say they will continue to monitor weather developments and issue further guidance if conditions change.
