Motorists Urged to Exercise Extreme Caution Amid Forecast Severe Weather Conditions Across South Africa
Motorists are being urged to remain vigilant and adjust their driving behaviour as adverse weather conditions are forecast to affect several parts of South Africa over the coming days.
The South African Weather Service issued a level 8 and Yellow level 4 warnings for Easter and Western Cape this week indicating the possibility of heavy rainfall, strong winds, reduced visibility, localized flooding, and icy conditions in some regions, creating potentially hazardous driving conditions.
The Road Traffic Management Corporation warns that wet and slippery roads significantly increase the risk of crashes, particularly during peak travel periods. Drivers are encouraged to plan their journeys carefully and allow extra travel time where possible.
Safety Tips for Motorists
To reduce the risk of accidents during severe weather, motorists are advised to:
- Reduce speed and maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead.
- Switch on headlights during rain, fog, or periods of poor visibility.
- Avoid sudden braking or sharp steering movements that could lead to loss of vehicle control.
- Ensure windscreen wipers, tyres, brakes, and lights are in good working condition before travelling.
- Be alert for flooded roads and low-water bridges and never attempt to drive through fast-flowing water.
- Increase following distances to allow for longer stopping times on wet surfaces.
- Avoid distractions and remain fully focused on the road.
- Use caution when overtaking, particularly in conditions of reduced visibility.
- Monitor weather updates and traffic advisories before and during travel.
- Delay non-essential travel if weather conditions become severe.
In addition, commercial vehicle operators and public transport drivers are encouraged to conduct pre-trip safety inspections and remain informed about route conditions.
Drivers are advised to find a place to park and stop driving when visibility becomes poor regardless of whether they are familiar with the route or not. The key message don’t drive on memory, drive on visibility.
Emergency services and road traffic authorities will continue to monitor conditions closely and provide updates where necessary. Members of the public are encouraged to report hazardous road conditions to the relevant authorities.
"The safety of all road users remains our top priority. We appeal to motorists to exercise patience, caution, and responsible driving behaviour during this period of adverse weather," said Simon Zwane, RTMC spokesperson.
For the latest weather forecasts and road condition updates, motorists should follow official weather and traffic information channels.
#Don’t Drive on Memory, Drive on Visibility