Provincial Response Activated Ahead of Cold Front and Possible Snowfall

The Inkosi Mhlabunzima Maphumulo House has received an alert from the South African Weather Services regarding an approaching cold front expected to bring a significant drop in temperatures, heavy rainfall, and the possibility of snowfall.

Although widespread snow is not currently forecasted for the province, motorists are urged to stay updated on weather developments and drive cautiously under changing conditions. In response, the highly capable Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) has been mobilised to intensively monitor road traffic and ensure public safety.

The province is no stranger to severe weather, having recently faced an intense heatwave with temperatures reaching 30°C. Now, it prepares for the possibility of extreme cold and disruptive snowfall—clear signs of the increasingly unpredictable climate patterns driven by global climate change.

Planned Interventions

Transport:

1. The Road Traffic Inspectorate will coordinate possible road closures and monitor key routes in consultation with the N3 Toll Concession. Areas of focus include the N3 between Harrismith and the Tugela Toll, the R617 between Kokstad and Underberg, the N2 near Ingeli, and the N3 near Mooi River, among others.
2. RTI teams will also escort trucks and other vehicles along high-risk routes to prevent congestion and ensure smooth traffic flow during adverse weather conditions.
3. The Transport Infrastructure Unit has prepared more than 10 motor graders, strategically stationed along vulnerable roads, to rapidly clear snow buildup and keep routes accessible.

Human Settlements:

1. The provincial Human Settlements team has been activated to work closely with the National Department of Human Settlements’ Emergency Housing and Mitigation Unit. This is to provide swift support to families potentially affected by flooding or snow-damaged homes.
2. The province has experienced recent incidents of flooding and localized landslides that tragically claimed lives. In such events, collaboration with Minister Thembi Simelane and her national team will ensure the timely relocation of affected families to safer areas.
3. The rollout of Temporary Residential Units (TRUs) will be accelerated to accommodate displaced families and mitigate the impact of the severe weather.

These proactive measures underscore the province’s commitment to safeguarding lives and infrastructure amid increasingly unpredictable weather conditions.

Issued by the MEC for Transport and Human Settlements