KwaZulu-Natal’s Department of Transport has closed the N2 highway between Kokstad and Port Shepstone due to heavy snowfall, urging motorists and “snow chasers” to avoid the area entirely.
The warning came in an urgent statement from the MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Siboniso Duma, who described the situation as life-threatening and called for calm and cooperation.
“Our message to motorists and snow chasers is that prevention is better than cure,” said Duma. “We urge motorists and general members of the public to avoid the area at all costs by delaying their trips to Kokstad. Trucks are already stuck and creating huge congestion.”
Multiple Road Closures and Active Response Teams
In addition to the N2 closure between Kokstad and Pietermaritzburg, authorities have also shut down the R603 route from Tacoma to Reit.
Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) officers, in collaboration with municipal traffic police, are redirecting vehicles and clearing blocked roads. Duma confirmed that 10 motor graders are on standby to remove snow accumulation of more than 30 cm.
“Drivers of motor graders are being sharpened to respond with speed and urgency,” he said.
The MEC also confirmed that the province has received three Orange Level 6 warnings for disruptive snow, torrential rain, and gale-force winds from the South African Weather Service.
A meeting has been scheduled with the mayors of Ugu District and Ray Nkonyeni Municipality to coordinate local disaster response efforts.
District-By-District Weather and Road Updates
The latest update from Duma’s office indicates that snowfall and strong winds are mostly affecting the southern parts of the province, especially the Harry Gwala District, where multiple sections of the N2 remain closed due to snow:
- N2 from Ingeli to Kokstad triangle: Closed
- N2 from Kokstad triangle to Brooksnek: Closed
- N2 Stafford Post (Umzimkhulu area): Closed as motorists attempt to force through despite snow in Beesterkraal
Elsewhere in the province, municipalities are reporting no major incidents, but high, icy winds are being experienced in Amajuba, Umzinyathi, and Uthukela districts.
A fallen tree on the R22 in Umkhanyakude was cleared overnight. Zululand, King Cetshwayo, and Ilembe districts remain on high alert, with patrolling teams monitoring conditions.
National Government Urges Public to Stay Warm
As the cold front sweeps across the country, the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) is advising the public to take precautions.
“Government urges citizens to dress warmly as the country experiences cold weather conditions. Wear multiple layers of clothing, including hats, scarves, gloves, and thick socks to retain body heat,” the GCIS said in a statement.
Authorities are asking the public to follow official updates and avoid unnecessary travel, especially in areas flagged with active snow and wind warnings.
