A serious multi-vehicle crash has forced the complete closure of the N4 tunnel near Waterval Boven, with Middelburg motorists urged to use alternative routes.

A major multi-vehicle crash inside the Waterval Boven tunnel on the N4 brought traffic between Middelburg and Nelspruit to a complete standstill earlier this evening (19 February).

Motorists travelling from Middelburg towards Nelspruit are urged to avoid the area and make use of the Schoemanskloof road as an alternative route.

According to information received from the scene, the crash involved two heavy trucks, two light motor vehicles and a City Bug minibus.

Injuries have been confirmed.

Nine people sustained minor injuries, three people were seriously injured and one person is in a life-threatening condition. Reports suggest one fatality but this is yet to be confirmed by official sources.

Emergency services are currently inside the tunnel assisting the injured, clearing debris and assessing damage. Recovery operations have been slowed by the confined space inside the tunnel, and delays are expected to continue for some time.

TRAC N4 traffic alerts confirmed that the road was closed shortly after 16:30 following the pile-up, warning motorists to expect significant delays and to make use of alternative routes.

Motorists are advised to remain patient, follow official traffic updates and avoid attempting to bypass road closures.

This is a developing story.

Updates will follow as more information becomes available.