An unexpected snow and ice storm has led to the closure of South Africa’s N3 highway at Van Reenen’s Pass, which connects the populous provinces of Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal.
Blizzard conditions, characterized by black ice and low visibility, prompted disaster management teams to mobilize on Saturday to clear snow and assist stranded motorists. Humanitarian organizations are also providing emergency support.
“Road users are advised to avoid the affected areas, as more inclement weather is expected,” stated Vusi Mona, general manager of South Africa’s National Road Agency.
This unusual weather event comes just days before the spring equinox in the Southern Hemisphere, as a low-pressure system has brought unusually cold temperatures and snow to regions including the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Free State.
The South African Weather Service has issued warnings for continued cold weather in these areas. Van Reenen’s Pass, which traverses the Drakensberg mountains, reaches an elevation of nearly 1,700 meters (5,577 feet).
