Major routes across KwaZulu‑Natal, the Eastern Cape, Free State and other provinces are closed or hazardous after a wave of snow, sleet and heavy rain. Authorities have warned of black ice, limited visibility and slow-moving convoys, and have urged road users to avoid travelling where possible.
What is affected
The Road Traffic Management Corporation reported multiple closures and extremely dangerous conditions on key national and regional links. The following roads were listed as closed or impassable:
- N3 (KwaZulu‑Natal/Free State): Closed between Estcourt and Harrismith; also closed at Midmar and Howick.
- Van Reenen Pass: Described as extremely hazardous because of black ice; motorists are advised not to travel this route.
- R617: Closed between Kokstad and Underberg after a truck became stranded at Kingscote; traffic being diverted to the R56.
- R74: Closed between Harrismith and Bergville at Oliviershoek Pass; the Greytown/Colenso section closed due to heavy snowfall at Santa Maria.
- R103 and Tugela Toll Plaza: Completely closed because of severe weather.
- Other KwaZulu‑Natal local routes: Lions River to Nottingham Road experiencing extremely slow movement (around 20km/h).
- Eastern Cape: Several passes closed, including the N6 (Penhoek Pass between Komani and Jamestown), the N9 (Lootsberg Pass between Graaff‑Reinet and Middelburg), the R58 (Barkly Pass between Elliot and Barkly East) and Boesmanshoek Pass (Sterkstroom–Molteno).
- Free State: Drivers are urged to take extreme care on the N3 between Harrismith and Van Reenen Pass; road crews are applying brine to reduce the formation of black ice.
| Province | Notable affected routes |
|---|---|
| KwaZulu‑Natal | N3 (Estcourt–Harrismith, Midmar/Howick), Van Reenen Pass, R617, R74, R103 |
| Eastern Cape | N6 (Penhoek Pass), N9 (Lootsberg Pass), R58 (Barkly Pass), Boesmanshoek Pass |
| Free State | N3 (Harrismith–Van Reenen), sleet and snow reported in parts |
Advice for drivers and travellers
Road authorities emphasised that conditions are changing quickly across high‑lying areas and mountain passes. The Road Traffic Management Corporation issued a direct appeal:
"Motorists are urged to exercise extreme caution in these conditions."
- Delay travel if your trip is not essential — several major arteries are closed and diversions are in operation.
- If you must drive, reduce speed dramatically, increase your following distance and be prepared for sudden stops; black ice can form even where the road surface looks wet.
- Equip your vehicle with a charged phone, a warm blanket, water and snacks; ensure your fuel tank is topped up.
- Follow official diversions and do not attempt to pass roadblocks — emergency teams are working to keep routes safe and to treat surfaces.
Operational response and outlook
Across affected regions, road crews have been deployed to treat surfaces with brine and to clear routes where possible. The weather system has produced snowfall in KwaZulu‑Natal and the Eastern Cape, with sleet and icy conditions reported in the Free State, Mpumalanga and other provinces. Some Western Cape areas also reported snowfall.
Authorities warn that mountain passes and high‑altitude highways remain particularly vulnerable to rapid deterioration. Motorists are advised to keep updated via official channels and traffic services before setting out.
Practical reminder: keep a close eye on forecasts and municipal or provincial traffic updates. If you encounter stranded vehicles or blocked roads, contact emergency services rather than attempting risky manoeuvres.
We will continue to monitor developments and share updates as road authorities and weather services issue further information.
