South African motorists are being urged to exercise extreme caution on the roads as harsh winter weather conditions bring heavy rainfall, snowfall, and icy surfaces. The call comes from road safety advocacy group Arrive Alive, following a level 9 weather warning issued by the South African Weather Service (SAWS) for parts of the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal.
Disruptive Weather Sparks Travel Chaos
The SAWS warning highlights the potential for flooding, severe thunderstorms, and snowfall in several regions. Already, the extreme weather has led to the closure of key travel routes. Among the affected areas is the N2 between Ingeli and Kokstad, which has been shut down due to snow accumulation. Likewise, the R58 near Barkley Pass is closed following hazardous conditions caused by snowfall. Meanwhile, persistent downpours in parts of KwaZulu-Natal have sparked fears of flash flooding.
In light of these developments, the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has advised that travel in impacted areas should be delayed until conditions improve.
Safety Measures for Wet and Icy Roads
Arrive Alive has released important guidelines for motorists who must travel during these treacherous weather conditions. These safety tips are designed to reduce the risk of accidents and ensure safer journeys:
| Precaution | Details |
|---|---|
| Slow Down | Drive at a reduced speed and maintain a larger following distance—at least three times more than usual. |
| Brake Gently | To avoid skidding, brake softly. If your wheels begin to lock, release the brake slightly. |
| Enhance Visibility | Switch on your headlights to make yourself more visible to other drivers, even during the day. |
| Maintain Cleanliness | Ensure that your windshield and headlights are clean and free of debris. |
| Use Low Gears | On hills and slippery surfaces, low gears can help improve traction. |
| Avoid Cruise Control | Do not use cruise control or overdrive settings on icy or wet roads. |
| Watch for Ice-Prone Areas | Bridges, overpasses, and shaded spots freeze first—drive cautiously in these areas. |
| Stay Behind Maintenance Vehicles | Avoid overtaking snowploughs or gritters; the road ahead of them is likely to be more dangerous. |
| Know Your Vehicle’s Limits | Don’t overestimate the capabilities of four-wheel or front-wheel drive vehicles—winter conditions challenge all vehicles. |
A Call for Responsible Driving
As the winter weather intensifies, Arrive Alive stresses the importance of driver awareness and preparedness. Motorists are reminded that road conditions can deteriorate quickly, and caution can be the difference between a safe trip and a serious incident.
Whether it’s adjusting travel plans, preparing your vehicle for adverse weather, or simply slowing down, a few thoughtful actions can significantly improve road safety during this challenging time.
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