Motorists warned as traffic volumes increase on Limpopo roads
Most routes in the province have already seen an increase in traffic, while rain is expected to play its part.
The provincial Department of Transport and Community Safety has cautioned motorists to remain safe as they make their way to and from Limpopo today.
In a statement departmental spokesperson Tidimalo Chuene says that traffic volumes have, since last night, already increased on major roads leading out of the province.
“A lot of activity was picked up on the N1 southbound towards Gauteng, the R101, R71, R81, the R579 from Lebowakgomo to Apel Cross, and D4100 from Apel Cross to Groblersdal and Marble Hall,” Chuene explains and adds that low to moderate traffic has been noted on several other roads.
While traffic officials are out and about, Chuene advises those who need to travel to leave their departure points early.
“Preferably [leave] during the daytime, and [do] not drive at night as the majority of the crashes occur at night when visibility is impaired,” she stresses.
Chuene warns that it is important to drive with caution, avoid the use of a cellphone while driving, maintain a safe following distance, take regular breaks, and to look out for pedestrians.
“Dial 0800 006 694 to report traffic emergencies in Limpopo,” she concludes.
PEDESTRIAN SAFETY| Are you walking somewhere? Think twice before you cross the road. Carefully look for oncoming cars before crossing. Be alert and arrive alive. Dial 0️⃣8️⃣0️⃣0️⃣ 0️⃣0️⃣6️⃣ 6️⃣9️⃣4️⃣ to report traffic emergencies in Limpopo. pic.twitter.com/YlS2nTKFw0
— Limpopo Department of Transport & Community Safety (@TransportLimCom) April 9, 2023
Warning issued for severe thunderstorms
To add to the traffic woes, rain as a result of severe thunderstorms is also expected to make travelling conditions worse.
The South African Weather Service (Saws) has issued a yellow level 2 warning for severe thunderstorms leading to heavy downpours.
“This may result in localised flooding of susceptible formal/informal settlements or roads, low- lying areas and bridges, hail and strong winds resulting in localised damages to vehicles and property (homes, carports, etc),” Saws says in a statement.
The warning was issued for Gauteng, eastern parts of the North West, eastern parts of the Free State, extreme south-western and south-eastern parts of Limpopo, as well as the western and eastern parts of Mpumalanga.
Limpopo Today 's Weather overview: 10.4.2023 pic.twitter.com/ptJONJMVhV
— SA Weather Service (@SAWeatherServic) April 10, 2023
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