MOTORISTS, public transport operators and all road users have been urged to be cautious on the roads as South Africa continues to experience inclement weather conditions.

“The persistent rain cause slower reflexes, vision limitations, erode roads and the rail network which then leads to delays. Thus, the warnings of extreme weather  remain in force for the rest of South Africa,” said Minister of Transport, Dipuo Peters

To ensure the safety of all road users, drivers are urged to extend their travel time to get to their destinations, check their vehicle and make sure their tyres, wipers and lights are in good condition. Motorists are also advised to keep an emergency kit in their vehicle and when possible, drive in the middle lane of a three-lane road.

“Most roads are higher in the middle, which means there’s a greater chance of water runoff and standing water in the side lanes,” she said.

In addition to the potentially poor visibility that accompanies most heavy rain, drivers should be ready to protect themselves against hydroplaning, a condition that occurs when a vehicle is travelling too fast in heavy rain conditions, causing the vehicle’s tyres to travel on a thin layer of water rather than grip the surface of the road. This has the potential to make steering and braking difficult and could lead to losing control of your vehicle.

Peters advised motorists that slowing down is the only way to keep vehicles from hydroplaning.

“Also, motorists must remember that one of the most dangerous times to drive is soon after it begins to rain, as oils on the roadway causes slick conditions. Waiting a few minutes, rather than rushing to your destination, can be a safer plan when it is raining,” she said.

People are advised to report bad driving by calling 086 1400 800.

KZN disaster teams on the ground

The KZN Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) has deployed its disaster management teams to respond to multiple incidents caused by torrential rains which have pummelled KZN since the beginning of the week. The teams are responding to all reported incidents as swiftly as possible.

KZN Cogta has to date intervened in Newcastle where parts of the town have been barricaded from an overflowing river and vulnerable residents have been temporarily housed in community halls. At uMhlabuyalingana and in Maphumulo, the department has been assisting residents who have been trapped on dirt roads.