POLOKWANE – The National Department of Transport has warned motorists in Limpopo, urging them to exercise extreme caution while travelling due to inclement weather conditions.

Heavy rain, strong winds, and reduced visibility are expected to persist until Friday, January 10, creating hazardous driving conditions.

Today (January 8) poor visibility and slippery roads are predicted, particularly on the following roads:

– N1 and R101 from Limpopo to Gauteng
– N11 from AllDay to Marble Hall
– R33 from Lephalala via Marble Hall
– R40 from Phalaborwa to Barberton
– R534 from Thohoyandou to Makhado
– R71 from Tzaneen to Polokwane
– R81 from Giyani to Polokwane

Motorists are strongly advised not to drive between 6 pm and 1 am on Wednesday in these areas. Additionally, strong thundershowers are expected on Thursday and Friday, leading to poor visibility and slippery roads.

To ensure safety, motorists are urged to:

– Switch on headlights during the day
– Keep a safe following distance
– Reduce speed on slippery roads
– Avoid crossing bridges with water overflow
– Pedestrians should cross streets at marked intersections and wear bright clothing in dark areas

The National Department of Transport spokesperson, Collen Msibi, emphasised the importance of road safety, stating, “The current road crashes and fatalities are of great concern, and motorists are urged to take responsibility for their safety. Let us all arrive alive!”

In case of a traffic emergency in Limpopo, call 0800 006 694 for assistance.