The KwaZulu-Natal department of transport has strengthened road safety measures after predictions of more snowfall in the province.
MEC Siboniso Duma said the South African Weather Service (SAWS) had warned that KwaZulu-Natal would see more snow from Monday into Tuesday. However, the snowfall is expected to be much lighter than the heavy falls that trapped motorists in their cars on the N3 and other routes last weekend.
Areas listed include Ladysmith, Underberg, Drakensberg, Giant's Castle and other high-ground areas.
Duma said erratic weather patterns caused by climate change required agility, discipline and dedication from the department.
The department's Road Traffic Inspectorate has established a satellite centre on top of Van Reenen's Pass to ensure quick action and road closure to mitigate against people getting trapped in the snow, he said. “Our teams are now on Van Reenen on the N3.”
Duma said the road incident management systems led by Sanral and comprising key role players in the national, provincial and municipal road network had co-ordinated a plan. “We have identified areas where we have set up joint operations. We are covering strategic routes that are notorious.”
The main focus is on the N3 between Harrismith and the Tugela Toll Plaza, the R617 between Kokstad and Underberg, the N2 at Ingeli and the N3 at Mooi River.
Duma said teams responsible for escorting trucks and vehicles to ensure there was no congestion on the roads were standing by. Graders are also on standby to clear any snow on the roads.
Members of the public and motorists have been urged to reschedule or postpone their journeys in anticipation of the snow.
By 3pm on Saturday three graders were in the main operation centre and others were on standby to move to other major routes. More are expected to be stationed on identified routes to ensure swift response.
KwaZulu-Natal's co-operative governance & traditional affairs MEC Thulasizwe Buthelezi has disaster management teams on high alert. He said that according to the latest report from the SAWS, snowfall was expected to be confined to the mountainous regions of the Harry Gwala district, and to be less than 2cm.
“Residents are, however, urged to exercise caution, particularly during long trips, by ensuring they have up-to-date weather forecasts,” he said.
He added that heavy rain had the potential to cause flooding.
Sanral spokesperson Vusi Mona said their teams were on high alert.
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