EASTERN CAPE – Five mountain passes in the Eastern Cape have reopened on 11 August after heavy snowfall forced their closure on 10 August, with motorists warned to remain cautious as wet, slippery and foggy conditions persist across parts of the province.

The passes that were initially affected are:

• Barkly Pass (R58) between Khowa and Ekhephini
• Penhoek Pass (N6) between Komani and James Calata
• Boesmanshoek Pass between Sterkstroom and Molteno
• Qacha’s Nek Pass between Matatiele and Lesotho
• Lootsberg Pass (N9) between Robert Sobukwe Town and Middelburg

According to the Eastern Cape Department of Transport, snowfall has subsided across the province on 11 August, allowing all the mountain passes that were closed for most of 10 August due to heavy snow to reopen to traffic.

However, driving conditions remain wet and slippery, and motorists are urged to approach these areas with extreme caution.

The department indicated that the Penhoek Pass on the N6 between Komani and James Calata is experiencing particularly thick fog and drizzle, resulting in poor visibility and less-than-ideal driving conditions.

Meanwhile, low-lying areas stretching towards the coast continue to experience cold weather, steady rainfall and mist.

“Cautious driving remains the order of the day,” the department said.

The department further indicated that no major weather-related crashes were reported overnight.

“We thank road users for their understanding, patience and cooperation during these adverse conditions,” the department said.

“We advise road users to slow down, increase following distances and switch on your headlights.”

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