South Africa Warns Of Hazardous Travel As Heavy Snow Disrupts Roads

August 11, 2026
By Mintesinot Nigussie

The South African Weather Service has issued an Orange Level 6 warning for disruptive snow, with parts of the Eastern Cape and Free State among the worst affected. Snow has disrupted several major routes and mountain passes, while a Yellow Level 2 warning for disruptive winds is in effect for parts of the Northern Cape and Western Cape.

Some routes have reopened after authorities cleared snow. Penhoek Pass on the N6 between Komani and James Calata is now accessible after most of the snow was removed from the road surface, while the R58 between Lady Grey and Ekhephini has also reopened. Travel remains hazardous on parts of the N3 in KwaZulu-Natal and the Free State, including around Van Reenen and Oliviershoek passes, where snow, sleet, rain and ice are affecting road conditions. The N3 between Harrismith and Van Reenen Pass should be approached with extreme caution, with emergency crews spraying brine across the lanes to limit the formation of black ice.

Parts of Mpumalanga and the Western Cape are also experiencing adverse conditions, including snowfall, icy roads and strong winds. The weather has already led to several road closures and travel disruptions. The National Disaster Management Centre is coordinating with provincial and local disaster management structures, traffic authorities, emergency services and other agencies to monitor conditions and manage affected routes.

Authorities said roads may be closed at short notice if conditions deteriorate, while routes that have been closed may reopen after they have been assessed and cleared. Motorists have been warned not to bypass roadblocks or enter routes declared unsafe. The government urged motorists to reduce speed, maintain a safe following distance and follow instructions from traffic and emergency officials. It also advised people to check official weather and road updates before undertaking long-distance journeys and, where possible, postpone travel until conditions improve.

The public has also been advised to protect children, older people and other vulnerable groups from extreme cold. Farmers and livestock owners have been urged to keep animals in warm and adequately sheltered areas during periods of severe cold and snowfall. Authorities said the public should rely on updates from the South African Weather Service, provincial traffic authorities, road agencies and disaster management and emergency services, rather than unverified reports about road conditions.

Source: FSX Business News