The N3 Toll Route in KwaZulu-Natal remains open with no major closures after a severe cold front brought snowfall to the Drakensberg Mountains yesterday.

Authorities who had been monitoring key routes, including the Van Reenen Pass between Harrismith and Ladysmith, confirmed on Thursday that conditions have stabilised following heavy rain and snow on Tuesday and Wednesday.

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) reported snowfall at higher elevations, including Sani Pass Border Post and Mount Fletcher, as a cut-off low-pressure system moved across the country from Monday to Wednesday. Parts of the Eastern Cape such as Barkley East and Lady Grey also suffered snow flurries.

KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport and Human Settlements Siboniso Duma said grader operators had been placed on standby to remove snow before it accumulated to more than 30cm.

Current conditions along the N3 include partly cloudy weather from Cedara to Tugela Plaza, with mist reported along the Van Reenen Pass to Balfour. However, traffic is flowing freely with no weather-related disruptions.

Motorists are advised that ongoing roadworks continue to affect travel, including restricted lanes between Ashburton and New England Road, and a contraflow system on the southbound route between the Hammarsdale interchange and the M13.

The weather service had issued warnings for disruptive rain along the coast between East London in the Eastern Cape and Cape Vidal in KwaZulu-Natal, with flooding of bridges, roads and settlements expected in low-lying areas.

More than 170 rooms were made available at the newly acquired Montclair Lodge to accommodate families affected by potential flooding. The Human Settlements team worked with eThekwini Municipality to ensure emergency accommodation was ready.

SAWS has indicated that fine but cold conditions are expected to dominate across most of the country as the weather system moves away. Motorists travelling through high-altitude sections are advised to check official channels for updates before travelling.

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