Authorities warn of dangers of snow skiing during Level 6 storm warning

Snow has fallen in the Drakensberg mountains. Although the sight of snow in South Africa often generates enthusiasm, drawing thousands of car tourists to high mountain passes, local authorities and emergency services strongly urge visitors to refrain from chasing the snow while serious Level 6 weather warnings are in effect.

Risks associated with Level 6 warnings

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) predicts that heavy rainfall could cause flooding of bridges, roads, and settlements. This may also lead to damage to property and infrastructure along the coast and in adjacent inland areas between East London in the Eastern Cape and Cape Vidal in KwaZulu-Natal.

The Provincial Minister of Joint Management and Traditional Affairs, Reverend Tulasiidze Butelezi, stated that the province's disaster management teams are closely monitoring the developing weather system and are prepared to respond if necessary.

What Level 6 weather warnings mean

A Level 6 weather alert signifies a high risk of severe disruptions and potential danger to life. These intense winter fronts, caused by powerful isolated low-pressure systems, lower temperatures below zero while bringing snowfall, torrential rain, and icy winds to high-altitude areas. These regions include KwaZulu-Natal, the Eastern Cape highlands, the southern part of Free State, and areas around Lesotho. Despite the stunning photographs created by snowy mountains, harsh winter conditions make roads extremely dangerous.

Recommendations for safe travel

Those in South Africa or planning a trip through highland provinces during a storm warning are advised to follow these safety protocols.

Firstly, postpone non-essential trips. If a Level 5 or Level 6 warning is in effect on your planned route, it is safer to remain at your current accommodation than to risk an icy pass.

Secondly, regularly check official updates on road conditions and weather. Rely on verified sources such as SAWS for real-time warning data, N3 Toll Concession (N3TC) for traffic information on the Gauteng-KZN corridor, and provincial disaster management centers and official road services. Decisions should not be based solely on social media rumors.

Thirdly, prepare an emergency kit. If travel through winter zones is unavoidable, ensure your vehicle has blankets and extra warm clothing (gloves, hats, and insulated jackets). You must also have a supply of food, snacks, and bottled water, as well as fully charged mobile phones and power banks. It is important to have a first aid kit, a flashlight, and always keep the fuel tank full before entering rural or mountainous routes.

Finally, it is strictly forbidden to bypass road barriers. If passage is closed by police officers, SAPS, or local disaster management teams, do not attempt to find alternative dirt roads. Remember that unequipped secondary paths freeze faster, turn into impassable mud, and are often not monitored by emergency services. It is best to enjoy the rare winter beauty of South Africa safely. When severe weather hits, wait out the storm in a warm lodge or a nearby cozy town, allowing rescue services to keep the roads clear and safe for everyone.

iol.co.zaJuly 29, 19:58

BMA suspends operations at Qacha's Nek border post due to heavy snowfall

The Commissioner of Border Control (BMA), Dr. Michael Masiapato, announced the temporary suspension of operations at the Qacha's Nek border post (PoE) located in Matatili, due to heavy snowfall in the region.

Impact on Border Crossing

This closure affects movement between South Africa and Lesotho. Consequently, travelers and stakeholders have been duly notified.

Masiapato explained that the heavy snowfalls led to unsafe weather conditions, necessitating a temporary halt to daily operations. He emphasized that this decision was made in the interest of travelers, staff, and the entire border management value chain community.

Coordination and Alternatives

It was noted that this preventive decision to temporarily cease operations was reached after coordination with colleagues from Lesotho. Commercial operators and travelers are advised to postpone their trips if possible. As an alternative, they can use the Telle Bridge PoE border post, which is approximately 190 kilometers from the site.

BMA will closely monitor the situation and provide updates as weather conditions improve. Masiapato urged the public to exercise caution and adhere to all official warnings.

Road Condition Monitoring

According to the Provincial Department of Transport, the Traffic Inspection is actively monitoring major routes across KwaZulu-Natal, as rainy and icy conditions affect various areas. The Department also reported that snowfall has been recorded in the Drakensberg region, including the Sani and Mount Fletcher passes in the Eastern Cape.

iol.co.zaJuly 29, 19:27

Snowfall covers parts of South Africa and Lesotho due to low pressure

Parts of South Africa and Lesotho are covered in snow following the passage of an isolated low-pressure area over South Africa. According to data from the South African Weather Service, icy cold weather and rain are expected.

Snowfall Reports

The Traffic Inspectorate reported snowfall in the Drakensberg area, including the Sanie Pass border post and Mount Fletcher. In Kokstad, rain continues, while Underberg is experiencing foggy and rainy conditions.

Official Response and Weather

The Minister of Transport and Human Settlements for KwaZulu-Natal, Siboniso Duma, praised the teams of the transport and human settlements departments for their response to the harsh weather conditions in the province. Snow continues to fall at Kinmel Guest Farm near Rhodes, maintaining winter conditions in this region.

The KZN province is expected to remain cloudy and cold or cool, with scattered showers and rain over the northern areas. Isolated precipitation is forecast elsewhere, except in the southwestern part.