By Mapaballo Borotho

- South Africans woke up to icy conditions on Monday, with heavy snowfall forcing the closure of three mountain passes in the Eastern Cape.
- Motorists have been urged to avoid the affected routes, while road authorities are working to assist stranded motorists and prevent dangerous black ice.
- Travellers have also been advised to carry emergency supplies and take extra precautions when travelling in the cold weather.
South Africans woke up to icy conditions on Monday morning, with weather forecasters urging the public to take care of themselves and stay indoors if possible.
Meanwhile, the Department of Transport in the Eastern Cape has also advised road users that three mountain passes in the northern parts of the province are currently closed due to heavy snowfall.
This message is mainly directed at those who are making their way back from the long weekend holidays.
Take note of the passes that are closed in the Eastern Cape:
- Barkly Pass – R58 between Elliot (Khowa) and Barkly East
- Penhoek Pass – N6 between Komani and James Calata (Jamestown)
- Boesmanshoek Pass – between Sterkstroom and Molteno
“Several vehicles are currently stranded, with emergency personnel on the ground working to assist and rescue affected motorists,” said the Department in a statement.
Road users have been urged to avoid these routes until further notice.
At the same time, dusting of snow has been reported around Swinburne, with rain and sleet affecting areas between Mooi River and Warden.
These conditions may cause hazardous driving conditions during the day.
“As a precaution, our Route Operations teams have begun to apply brine across all lanes from the bottom of Van Reenen Pass towards Harrismith. This process is to help prevent the formation of black ice, and will be extended to other areas of the road should weather conditions require it,” explains Thania Dhoogra, chief operating officer of N3TC.
Dhoogra urged travellers to always keep emergency supplies in their vehicles, including warm clothing and blankets, water, food, medication, a charged cellphone and charger, and a torch.
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