The Thabo Mofutsanyana District Disaster Management Team is monitoring weather conditions and in the Harrismith area.

Weather update:

• Snow and rain has been reported in Lalanati.
• * Platberg has small deposits of snow, while approximately 2 cm of snow has been recorded at the S-bend.
• At Van Reenen, including the bottom of Van Reenen, rain is experienced, with indications that the snowfall may be moving in the direction of Van Reenen.
• KwaZulu Natal: Traffic volumes are expected to be high with snow reported on the R56. Drive with extreme caution.
• Eastern Cape – N6 Panhoek pass closed as well as R58 Barly Pass and Lootsberg pass N9 between Graaff Reinet and Middelburg closed. Use alternative routes.
• Snowal reported in Elliot, Barkley East, Maclear area.
• R617 closed.
• Free State: Severe thunderstorms expected for August 10.

The situation remains under close observation as the team continues to assess conditions across the affected areas.

Residents are urged to remain calm, exercise caution when travelling, and follow official updates as they become available.

Avoid travelling to snow affected areas unless absolutely necessary.

Travel tips

While many may view the snowfall as an opportunity for sightseeing, the current weather conditions present significant risks to public safety.

Areas such as Van Reenen’s Pass and other affected routes are experiencing dangerous driving conditions, including reduced visibility, icy road surfaces, severe congestion, road closures, and the possibility of vehicles becoming stranded for extended periods.

Emergency responders, rescue teams and essential services are already under increased pressure during severe weather events. Preventable incidents place additional strain on resources that may be needed for genuine emergencies.