Disaster management teams in KwaZulu-Natal remained on high alert as the province prepared for heavy rain and possible snowfall, reports IOL.

Provincial MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Siboniso Duma, received a weather report from the South African Weather Service (SAWS) warning of a cold front and significant temperature drops. While snowfall was not confirmed, motorists were urged to monitor updates and exercise caution. A Yellow Level 4 warning for disruptive rain was issued for most of KZN, while parts of the Eastern Cape received a Level 2 warning.

Duma said that teams from the Road Traffic Inspectorate, or RTI, would also be on standby to monitor traffic. He explained that, if needed, the RTI would coordinate road closures and monitor major routes, including the N3 through Harrismith, Tugela Toll, the R617 between Kokstad and Underberg, as well as Mooi River and the N2 Ingeli.

Trucks using these routes would also be escorted by the RTI to prevent congestion. Duma said graders were stationed along hotspot routes to ensure a faster response.

The warnings came as thousands prepared for Easter travel, with KZN recording the highest fatal crashes during the 2024 Easter period.