Weekend travel? Icy, wet weather forecast

With icy weather conditions, rain and thunderstorms expected in parts of South Africa, travellers are being urged to be cautious and take heed of all warnings.

A cold front is set to make landfall in the Western Cape on Saturday, resulting in 30% showers and rain in the west coast and adjacent interior, spreading to the south coast on Sunday.

Damaging winds are anticipated over the central parts of the Northern Cape and along the Eastern Cape at the weekend. This is along with snowfall in some areas, including the Drakensberg.

Warning update for Rain🌧️#saws #ColdFront #Itscoldoutside pic.twitter.com/LF2HJxseD9

— SA Weather Service (@SAWeatherServic) August 8, 2025

Warning update for Waves🌊🌊#saws #ColdFront #Itscoldoutside pic.twitter.com/obSDbQje7t

— SA Weather Service (@SAWeatherServic) August 8, 2025

The weather warnings have prompted calls for motorists to take necessary precautions before travelling.

The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) warns that severe weather conditions will affect road conditions and the ability to drive safely.

Warning update for Wind🌬️#saws #ColdFront #Itscoldoutside pic.twitter.com/xoAwoXkQb7

— SA Weather Service (@SAWeatherServic) August 8, 2025

Here’s what you need to remember when driving in wet and icy conditions:

1. Decrease your speed and leave yourself plenty of room to stop. You should allow at least three times more space than usual between you and the car in front of you.

2. Brake gently to avoid skidding. If your wheels start to lock up, ease off the brakes.

3. Turn on your lights to increase your visibility to other motorists.

4. Keep your lights and windscreen clean.

5. Use low gears to keep traction, especially on hills.

6. Don’t use cruise control or overdrive on icy roads.

7. Be especially careful on bridges, overpasses and infrequently travelled roads, which will freeze first. Even at temperatures above freezing, if the conditions are wet, you might encounter ice in shady areas or on exposed roadways like bridges.

8. Don’t assume your vehicle can handle all conditions. Even four-wheel and front-wheel drive vehicles can encounter trouble on wet roads.

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