A file image from a previous bout of snowfall in KZN.
Image: KZN Department of Transport
Disaster management teams across the province of KwaZulu-Natal remain on high alert as the province readies for more heavy rain and possible snowfall.
Provincial MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Siboniso Duma, said he has received a weather report from the South African Weather Service (Saws) warning of a cold front that will see a significant drop in temperatures.
"While the SA Weather Services has not suggested the province will be blanketed in a wave of snow, we request motorists to monitor weather reports and exercise caution," Duma said.
He added that teams from the Road Traffic Inspectorate or RTI will also be on standby to monitor traffic.
Duma explained that if needed, RTI will coordinate road closures and keep an eye on major routes including the N3 including Harrismith, Tugela Toll, the R617 between Kokstad and Underberg, along Mooi River and the N2 Ingeli.
Trucks using these routes will also be escorted by the RTI to prevent any congestion. The MEC said graders will be stationed along hotspot routes to ensure faster response.
Saws has issued a Yellow Level 4 warning for disruptive rain over most parts of KZN, except for the north-eastern parts of the province.
A Yellow Level 2 warning for disruptive rain has also been issued for areas along the Wild Coast in the Eastern Cape.
Sani Mountain Escape said with rain and snow expected along Sani Pass conditions can become slippery and dangerous.
The inclement weather comes just as thousands of people are expected to take to the roads for the upcoming Easter weekend.
According to CrisisOnCall, an emergency readiness organisation, the highest number of fatal crashes occurred in KZN over Easter 2024.
In a bid to combat this, the Department of Transport and Human Settlements unveiled several proactive measures for travellers expected to holiday in the province.
With over 1,500 cars expected to pass through the province's tollgates per hour, Duma said 120 law enforcement officers will be working at various safety operations.
A 24-hour satellite station will also be in effect in the Mbazawna/Manguzi area and there will be 24-hour blue light patrols between the roadworks at the N3 Keyridge and Hammarsdale, known to be a hotspot for truck crashes.
seanne.rall@iol.co.za
IOL
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