KwaZulu-Natal: KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Siboniso Duma, has encouraged travellers to monitor weather warnings issued by the South African Weather Service (SAWS) as snow and a cold front have been predicted for over the Easter weekend. Road traffic volumes are expected to increase with travellers driving to various religious and holiday destinations from Friday, 18 April to Monday, 21 April 2025.
According to South African Government News Agency, Duma stated, “We are in receipt of a weather report from the SAWS informing us of a cold front that will result in the dropping of temperatures, heavy rainfall and possible snowfall.” While the SAWS has not suggested the province will be blanketed in a wave of snow, motorists are requested to monitor weather reports and exercise caution. The Road Traffic Inspectorate team has been activated to monitor traffic closely. Drawing from past experiences, the MEC noted the hazards associated with snow, highlighting the erratic weather patterns caused by climate change.
Duma emphasized planned interventions, including coordination by the Road Safety and Traffic Inspectorate team for possible road closures and observation of major routes in consultation with N3 Toll Concession. The focus will be on routes such as the N3 Harrismith, Tugela Toll Plaza, R617 between Kokstad and Underberg, N2 Ingeli, and N3 Mooi-River, among others. The team will also be responsible for escorting trucks and vehicles to prevent congestion.
In preparation for the cold front, drivers of motor graders have been prepared to respond urgently to remove snow before it accumulates on the road, with more than 10 graders stationed on identified routes. Additionally, a roving team from Human Settlements has been activated to liaise with the national Department of Human Settlements’ Emergency Housing and Mitigation Unit to assist families affected by flooding or snow-covered houses.
The province, in collaboration with the Minister of Human Settlements Thembi Simelane, will work to relocate displaced families to ensure their safety. The deployment of Temporary Residential Units will be expedited to accommodate affected families.