The KwaZulu-Natal provincial government has mobilized teams anticipating a temperature drop and potential snowfall expected to affect the region later this week. Despite the lack of an official warning from the South African Weather Service (SAWS), forecasts predict snow over high-lying areas moving into KwaZulu-Natal by 30 September 2024.
In response, the KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Siboniso Duma, detailed the activation of Road Incident Management Systems (RIMS) led by the South African National Roads Agency Limited (SANRAL). This initiative aims to enhance coordination across national, provincial, and municipal road networks, focusing on areas prone to adverse weather impacts. A satellite center on Van Reenen's Pass will be established to facilitate rapid response and potential road closures, operating on 12-hour shifts starting Saturday afternoon.
Efforts to maintain road safety include deploying traffic law enforcement officials to manage road closures and monitor major routes. The province has also prepared motor graders to clear snow from critical roads promptly, with over 10 graders ready for immediate action.
SAWS has advised that snowfall, expected to commence on Monday, will likely cease by Tuesday, followed by rainfall across various parts of the province. The provincial government is engaging with key stakeholders, including the road freight industry, the South African National Taxi Council, and bus and truck associations, to ensure collaborative efforts in maintaining road safety and avoiding congestion, particularly on the N3 corridor.
Source: SA News