South Africa Braces for Cold Front: Road Closures and Weather Warnings Issued. Image: News24.
(The Post News)– A strong cold front is sweeping across South Africa, bringing wintry conditions to several parts of the country. The Eastern Cape Transport Department is warning drivers to be extremely cautious on the roads due to the hazardous weather conditions. The N9 road between Graaff-Reinet and Middelburg has been closed due to snow, and motorists are advised to use this road only if absolutely necessary.
The department’s spokesperson, Unathi Binqose, emphasized the importance of safety, stating that the road surface has a thick layer of snow, making it treacherous for drivers. Meanwhile, the N6 road between Komani (Queenstown) and Cathcart is also closed due to a truck accident that spilt hazardous chemicals, and it’s expected to remain closed for a period of time.
In Johannesburg, the emergency services reported no major incidents following the intense cold front, but residents are being urged to take precautions during the cold spell. The city’s Emergency Management Services are monitoring all seven regions for any emergencies, and residents are advised to be mindful of heating devices like heaters, braziers, and paraffin stoves to prevent fire incidents.
The South African Weather Service has issued warnings for several parts of the country, predicting very cold, wet, and windy conditions, including snow and localized flooding. While Gauteng is expected to experience relatively calmer conditions, with cool and partly cloudy skies, isolated showers and rain are still possible. Residents are advised to stay informed and plan accordingly to ensure their safety during this period of inclement weather.