Heavy snow, hail, rain and freezing conditions are disrupting travel across several provinces in South Africa, forcing the closure of major roads and creating hazardous conditions for motorists.
The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has issued an urgent warning, advising drivers to exercise extreme caution and check the latest road conditions before travelling.
KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape are among the worst-affected provinces, with several major routes closed because of heavy snowfall and dangerous driving conditions.
In KwaZulu-Natal, the N3 has been closed between Estcourt and Harrismith, with motorists advised to avoid the route when entering the province. Sections of the N3 around Midmar and Howick are also closed, while Van Reenen Pass remains particularly dangerous because of icy conditions.
The R617 between Kokstad and Underberg has been closed following a truck becoming stranded at Kingscote. The R74 is also closed between Harrismith and Bergville at Oliviershoek Pass, as well as along the Greytown-Colenso route near Santa Maria.
The R103 and Tugela toll plaza are also completely closed, while traffic between Lions River and Nottingham Road is moving slowly at about 20 kilometres per hour.
In the Eastern Cape, the N6, N9, R58 and Boesmanshoek Pass have been closed because of severe weather and poor road conditions.
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In the Free State, emergency crews are applying brine to sections of the N3 between Harrismith and Van Reenen Pass to reduce ice formation as sleet, rain and snow continue.
Mpumalanga is also experiencing dangerous conditions, with Long Tom Pass on the R37 closed. Authorities have reported multiple accidents around the N4/N12 interchange, where motorists are being urged to exercise extreme caution.
Roads around Belfast, Dullstroom and Roossenekal remain open, although drivers have been advised to proceed carefully. Freezing rain and icy conditions have also been reported in Volksrust and Ermelo.
In the Western Cape, snowfall has resulted in the closure of Swartberg Pass, Mont Rochelle and Franschhoek Pass.
Meanwhile, most roads in Gauteng, Limpopo, North West and Northern Cape remain open, although some areas are experiencing cold and wet conditions.
Authorities warned that weather and road conditions can change rapidly and urged motorists to obtain the latest updates before beginning their journeys.
Drivers are also advised to reduce their speed, maintain a safe following distance and avoid unnecessary travel in areas affected by snow, ice and poor visibility.
