The N3 highway, a crucial route connecting Gauteng to KwaZulu-Natal, has been severely affected by heavy snowfall, causing chaos and stranding hundreds of vehicles over the weekend. The unexpected weather conditions have rendered the road unsafe for travel, prompting authorities to advise motorists to avoid the route until further notice.
Despite efforts by emergency services to clear the road, the N3 remains closed to traffic as the clean-up operation continues. KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta), Thulasizwe Buthelezi, emphasized the dangerous driving conditions, stating that the presence of black ice and ongoing rainfall have made the road extremely hazardous.
“Many drivers have abandoned their trucks, and we strongly urge people to stay away from the N3. While the road is technically open, the clean-up process is still underway, and the driving conditions remain perilous,” Buthelezi warned.https://twitter.com/MDNnewss/status/1838099278062927885?s=19
The snowstorm, which began late Friday night, forced the closure of the N3 in both directions between Harrismith in the Free State and the Tugela Plaza in KwaZulu-Natal. At the height of the storm, more than 1,800 vehicles were trapped between Van Reenen’s Pass and the Mooi River Plaza.
Tragically, one fatality has been reported. A woman traveling in a taxi from Johannesburg to KwaZulu-Natal succumbed to hypothermia after the vehicle became stranded in the snow. Buthelezi confirmed the death, noting, “We will wait until we have made contact with the family before releasing further information.”
The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has been deployed to assist with rescue operations since Sunday morning. A coordinated effort involving the Road Traffic Inspectorate, Cogta, SANDF, the Red Cross, and local municipalities has been working to ensure the safety and well-being of all affected passengers.
“All passengers have been accounted for as of last night, and most cars have been evacuated. However, we still face challenges with clearing abandoned trucks that are blocking parts of the road,” Buthelezi said.
Acting Premier Thembeni Madlopha-Mthethwa will lead a delegation to visit the relief centers established for stranded travelers. One such center is located at the Escort Town Hall, while another has been set up at the Ladysmith Town Hall. These centers are distributing relief materials and assisting travelers in reaching their destinations safely.
The Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) confirmed that most stranded motorists have been assisted, although some remain trapped in areas that are still difficult to access.
“Most roads have been cleared of snow, and trapped motorists have been rescued. However, clean-up operations are still ongoing,” the GCIS stated.
Despite some roads being cleared, the N3 remains closed to incoming traffic, except for the section between Van Reenen and Montrose, where recovery operations are still in progress.
“Clearing Van Reenen Pass is progressing steadily, but the road is still heavily impacted by abandoned trucks. As a result, the pass remains closed while rescue and recovery efforts continue,” the GCIS said.
The agency strongly advised against travel on newly reopened roads, as they remain slippery and visibility is reduced due to mist and snow.
“Both Wilge and Tugela Plazas are currently closed to traffic. The N5 from Bethlehem to Harrismith is open but dangerous due to melting snow 30 kilometers from Harrismith. Travel on this route is highly discouraged,” the GCIS added.
The N11 route between Ladysmith and Volksrust has reopened, but thick mist in the Majuba Pass area has created difficult driving conditions. Residents along this route have been urged to avoid unnecessary travel.
In the Free State, the Border Management Authority (BMA) has temporarily closed certain ports of entry as a safety measure. Travelers seeking to enter Lesotho are advised to use alternative ports, such as Ficksburg, Caledonspoort, and Maseru.
For travelers still trapped in the snow, the GCIS urged them to remain in their vehicles and signal for help, rather than attempting to seek assistance on foot.
“It is safer to stay inside your vehicle and wait for help. Do not leave your vehicle unless assistance is visible within a reasonable distance,” the GCIS advised.
The uThukela District, particularly Ladysmith, Bergville, and Estcourt, as well as the Harry Gwala District, have been most affected by the snow. Farmers in these areas have been advised to secure their livestock in safe areas to prevent further losses. Authorities hope to have the roads cleared by Monday, weather permitting.