Local news

Call for vigilance amid extreme weather conditions in KZN

These KZN routes and municipalities are affected by strong winds, heavy rains and snow

With multiple road closures across the province owing to adverse weather conditions, motorists are urged to delay travel or remain vigilant and adhere to warnings.

The warning has been issued by Cogta MEC Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, who said disaster management teams are on the ground in affected areas across the province.

ALSO READ: Severe weather causes widespread power outages across KZN

This as heavy snowfall in the Harry Gwala, uThukela, and parts of Ugu districts has led to the closure of the N2 between Ingeli and Kokstad. Motorists are advised to avoid this route.

Damaging winds have caused trees to be uprooted, disrupting traffic on major routes, including the N3.

“There are areas within the province where wind speeds have clocked 110km/h,” said Buthelezi.

“Swift action by disaster management teams has ensured these disruptions are minimised.

“Additionally, municipal teams are working in affected communities to clear roads blocked by fallen trees.

“These teams are also working hard to ensure power is restored where powerlines have been damaged by fallen trees.”

ALSO READ: WATCH: N2 snow closure in Kokstad, hail in Jozini and Hluhluwe

Buthelezi further urged parents and guardians to ensure scholar transports use safe and appropriate routes, particularly in areas impacted by the severe weather.

“Disaster management teams remain on the ground, actively responding to incidents.

“Residents are urged to follow all instructions from disaster authorities, especially regarding road closures, to ensure their safety,” said the MEC.

Road closures and impacts in various municipalities

According to the KZN Department of Transport, these areas and routes are impacted by the adverse weather conditions and are being monitored.

• eThekwini Metro: All roads are open. Experiencing heavy winds
• Ilembe District: All roads are open. No effect from adverse weather. Experiencing heavy winds
• uMgungundlovu District: All roads are open. No effect from adverse weather. Experiencing heavy Berg winds
• uMkhanyakude District: All roads are open. Experiencing windy conditions. The main concern is a fallen tree on the R22, Section 2, which was reported last night. Standby team responded promptly and removed the tree. The rehabilitation contracts are proceeding smoothly, with only day closures currently in place
• Zululand District: No issues have been reported, and the patrol teams are actively monitoring the route
• King Cetshwayo District: All seems to be in order for now. The patrol teams are inspecting the route
• N2 Ugu District: Rain with strong winds. Fallen trees are being attended by RRM. No major issues to report on the N2 towards Port Edward and N2 towards Harding
• Harry Gwala District: The N2 from Ingeli towards Kokstad triangle is closed due to snow
• N2 from Kokstad triangle (Kokstad bridge project) towards Brooksnek is closed due to snow. There is rain and strong winds in uMzimkhulu and Ixopo. uMzimkhulu RTI and RRM closed the road on the N2 Stafford Post (uMzimkhulu area) because motorists are not heeding snow warnings and trying to go through despite the snow in Beesterkraal
• Amajuba District: N11-3 and 4 are clear. Just very high, icy winds prevail
• uThukela District: N11-1 and 2 are clear. Just very high, icy winds prevail. Snow on the Drakensberg, but not affecting any roads
• uMzinyathi District: N11-3 clear. Just very high, icy winds prevail

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