The N3 Toll Route has been closed from Estcourt in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands to Harrismith in the Free State due to significant snowfall.
The heavy snow left many motorists stranded in their vehicles, unable to move as conditions worsened on Friday evening.
Arrive Alive has advised drivers to avoid both Harrismith in the Free State and Howick in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands. “For safety reasons, all traffic is being halted at Tugela Plaza in KwaZulu-Natal and the Harrismith South Interchange in the Free State.
Where feasible, vehicles are being turned around at designated points along the route,” the organization stated.
Motorists are also cautioned against using alternative routes, as conditions remain hazardous. Arrive Alive further recommended that travelers suspend their journeys until the roads are safe for use again.
In response to the situation, the Midlands EMS has deployed a rescue unit to the N3 to handle medical emergencies. Spokesperson Roland Robertson urged the public to refrain from traveling, citing extremely slippery and icy conditions.
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“Rescuers are responding to multiple calls and are working diligently to reach those in need as quickly as possible,” he added.
The following roads are currently closed:
– R74 (Harrismith to Bergville): Heavy snowfall on Oliviershoek Pass
– R74 Greytown/Colenso Road: Heavy snowfall at Santa Maria
– N3, Harrismith to Tugela Toll
– R617, Kokstad to Underberg
– N2 Ingeli: Under close observation
– N3 Mooi-River: Under close observation
– Tugela Plaza
– R103
– N3 North at Midmar/Howick
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