House Inkosi Mhlabunzima Maphumulo: We have received a forecast from the South African Weather Services indicating an approaching cold front which will lead to a drop in temperatures, intense rainfalls, and potential snow events.
Although the SA Weather Services hasn’t indicated that the province will be covered in a blanket of snow, we ask drivers to keep an eye on weather updates and drive carefully.
Specifically, our very effective team from the Road Traffic Inspectorate has been deployed to keep a close watch on the traffic.
Based on our previous experiences, we completely understand the dangers and destruction caused by snow.
A short time back, we had a scorching heat index of 30 degrees Celsius, yet now we're preparing for potential snowfall and torrential rain.
This reflects the unpredictability of weather conditions due to climate change.
We would like to draw attention to the following scheduled initiatives:
Transport
1. Road Safety and Traffic Inspectorate: This group will work together with N3 Toll Concession to manage potential road closures and monitor key traffic routes. Their main areas include the stretch of N3 from Harrismith through Tugela Toll, as well as R617 connecting Kokstad and Underberg, along with sections like N2 Ingeli and N3 Mooi River, among others.
2. It should be noted that the team will additionally have the responsibility of accompanying trucks and vehicles to prevent traffic jams on the roads.
3. Operators of Motor Graders - Transport Infrastructure Unit: The operators of motor graders have honed their skills to swiftly address snow removal, ensuring rapid action to clear roads before accumulation occurs. Over ten grader machines will be deployed along designated paths to enhance our promptness in responding to these conditions.
Human Settlements
1. The mobile unit from Human Settlements stands ready to connect with the national Department of Human Settlements’ Emergency Housing and Mitigation Team in case they must urgently aid homeless families due to floods or heavy snowfall affecting homes.
2. Recently, our area was hit by floods and localized landslides, leading to tragic loss of life within the community. When needed, in collaboration with the Minister of Human Settlements, Thembi Simelane, and her competent team, we will make sure that families are moved to safer locations for their protection.
3. The rollout of Temporary Residential Units will accelerate to house the displaced families.
Issued by the MEC for Transportation and Urban Development
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