Motorists left stranded in KZN and Free State as icy weekend bites.

By Lehlohonolo Lehana.

Heavy snowfall in certain parts of the Free State and Kwazulu-Natal has caused the closure of the N3 between Harrismith and the Tugela Toll.

The N3 Toll concession warned that the road from Estcourt in Kwazulu-Natal to Harrismith in the Free State remain closed with various other lane closures.

“The N3TC Route Control Centre (RCC) is currently inundated with calls, and disaster management teams and all other emergency service resources remain under tremendous pressure.

“Please avoid travel to the area until further notice,” said the N3TC.

Icy conditions, wet weather and poor visibility were reported along other sections of the route causing dangerous driving conditions from Kwazulu-Natal through Free State, Southern Parts of Mpumalanga and Gauteng.

Meanwhile, the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) said its disaster management teams are actively monitoring conditions across the province as heavy snowfall and rain continue to affect various areas.

The severe weather has resulted in the closure of the N3 between Harrismith and Tugela Toll, as well as the R617 between Kokstad and Underberg.

Additionally, routes such as the N2 Ingeli and N3 Mooi-River are under close observation.

Residents planning to travel on these roads are strongly advised to postpone their journeys due to the current conditions.

The adverse weather conditions are expected to persist through Saturday.

Weather forecaster for South African Weather Services (Saws) Nhlanhla Sithole said snow was expected on Friday and Saturday.

Safety Tips for Motorists Stuck on the Roads:

  1. Stay in Your Vehicle:If you are stranded, it is safer to stay inside your vehicle and wait for help. Do not leave the vehicle to search for assistance unless help is visible within 100 metres.
  2. Signal for Help:Display a brightly coloured cloth (preferably red) on your radio antenna or hang it out of the window to signal for help. Raise the hood after the snow stops falling.
  3. Run the Engine Sparingly:Run the engine for about 10 minutes every hour to stay warm. Ensure the exhaust pipe is clear of snow to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
  4. Conserve Fuel:Use your vehicle’s heater sparingly to conserve fuel. Keep a window slightly open to allow fresh air in.
  5. Stay Visible:Keep the dome light on at night when running the engine. This uses a small amount of electricity and helps rescuers see you.
  6. Stay Warm:Use blankets, extra clothing, or anything available to stay warm. Move your arms and legs occasionally to maintain circulation.
  7. Stay Hydrated:Drink fluids to avoid dehydration, but avoid alcohol as it lowers body temperature.
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