Wild weather shuts major SA routes: These are the roads currently affected

South Africa is experiencing challenging weather, with snow and heavy rain impacting major roadways across the country. KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape have been particularly affected, with numerous highways closed due to snow. Reports indicate snowfall in the Western Cape, sleet in the Free State, and adverse conditions in Mpumalanga and other regions. The Road Traffic Management Corporation has urged drivers to exercise extreme caution due to the hazardous conditions.

Specifically, the N3 highway between Harrismith and Van Reenen Pass is advised to be navigated with great care, as emergency crews are using brine to prevent black ice. Between Warden and Mooi River, sleet and rain are falling, with snow covering Swinburne. Drivers are being urged to reduce their speed.

The R74 at Oliviershoek Pass, linking Harrismith to Bergville, is considered high-risk, especially as conditions worsen en route to KZN. Thick ice has affected routes around Matatiele, and mountain passes may face temporary closures. While traffic is flowing normally in much of Mpumalanga, Long Tom Pass on the R37 has been closed due to multiple vehicles becoming stranded on icy inclines. Access from both directions is blocked.

In the Western Cape, traffic is moving moderately, but the Swartberg Pass and Mont Rochelle/Franschhoek roads are closed due to snow. Gauteng, Limpopo, North West, and the Northern Cape are experiencing moderate traffic flow, though some areas are encountering cold and wet conditions. Authorities have taken steps to ensure information accuracy, but road and weather conditions can change swiftly, and readers are advised to verify details with local authorities before traveling.