Heavy snowfall expected on Sunday evening
Do not chance it, play safe when travelling in high-lying areas. Even state-of-the-art 4X4s are not equipped to deal with heavy snow.
With the entire KZN Midlands expected to be covered in light snowfall this weekend, all eyes will be on Van Reenen.
JOCs (Joint Operation Centres) in the various areas are preparing or will be preparing to co-ordinate emergency services response to snowfall. Ladysmith/Van Reenen JOC, headed by RTI’s David Steele, is preparing for the worst.
“We expect sleet to start falling by Sunday midday, with heavy snowfall on Sunday evening, lasting through to Monday morning,” explained Mr Steele.
There is a strong possibility that Van Reenen’s Pass will be closed to traffic by about 12pm on Sunday, should snow fall as predicted.
Long-distance truck drivers and motorists are warned to choose routes in low-lying areas and to avoid Van Reenen should current weather predictions remain the same.
In 2011 and 2012, heavy snowfall completely trapped hundreds of trucks and cars on the pass for several days. N3TC and RTI do not want a repeat of this scenario, hence the early warning of complete road closure.
Possible snowfall in the Berg is also expected to be high:
Giant’s Castle 120cm
Cathedral Peak 75cm
Champagne Castle 120cm
Mafadi 150cm
As with all weather forecasts, information can change at a moment’s notice. Keep monitoring local media for more information. We will keep you updated.
Snowfall in 2012…
