The South African government has announced the deployment of the army to assist with relief efforts in KwaZulu-Natal, as the province grapples with a severe snow warning issued by the South African Weather Service. A Level 8 warning for disruptive snow is currently in effect for the southwestern areas of the province, spanning from Ladysmith to Giants Castle in the midlands.
A severe snow warning has brought travel disruptions across South Africa, with the N3 Toll Route closed between Estcourt and Harrismith due to heavy snowfall. Fortunately, no deaths or injuries have been reported.
The South African Weather Service issued a Level 8 warning for disruptive snow, affecting the southwestern areas of KwaZulu-Natal, from Ladysmith to Giants Castle in the midlands.
The government’s swift response aims to mitigate the impact of the severe snow warning, which may worsen existing socio-economic challenges in the region. The SANDF’s involvement will focus on providing critical support to disaster management teams, ensuring the safety and well-being of affected residents.
Severe weather conditions have dumped heavy snow across:
- Gauteng
- Free State
- Mpumalanga
- KwaZulu-Natal
- Eastern Cape
Residents in these regions are advised to exercise extreme caution and follow evacuation instructions from local authorities.
SA Weather Service warns of more snow on Saturday night
MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Siboniso Duma, said they are closely monitoring key routes in KwaZulu-Natal, which remain closed due to heavy snowfall, ice, and rain.
MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Siboniso Duma, said: “We have deployed our efficient and hardworking team of officers from the Road Traffic Inspectorate to assist motorists.”
Duma urged motorists not to attempt using alternative routes, as conditions on the roads remain hazardous.“Please stay at home,” he advised.
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