PAARL – Strong winds, which have been causing havoc in Cape Town and surrounds, have led to a heavy delay in traffic after both the R101 via Du Toitskloof Pass and the Huguenot Tunnel have been closed.

According to Maxine Bezuidenhout, Western Cape Mobility Chief Director for Traffic Management, the tunnel is closed to all vehicles. And now, an incident on the R101 has resulted in the closure of this road as well.

“The alternative route at present is the R43 via Ceres and Wolseley. Heavy motor vehicles are advised to avoid Bainskloof Pass,” says Bezuidenhout.

“Motorists are urged to avoid the affected area, follow the instructions of traffic officials on the ground, exercise caution and allow for additional travel time.”

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Early on Friday (4 September) the national road agency Sanral decided to temporarily close the Huguenot Tunnel until the strong winds have subsided. This comes after the South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a Yellow 4 warning for disruptive winds for 3 and 4 September over parts of the Northern Cape and Western Cape, including the Cape Winelands.

“Damaging wind leading to damage to temporary structures, damage to settlement, injuries and danger to life from flying debris, transport routes and travel services affected by wind,” reads the warning.

Nova News has been informed that two trucks have overturned on Du Toitskloof Pass, but this is yet to be confirmed.

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