Road users travelling along parts of the N3 Toll Route in the coming days are advised to prepare for challenging weather conditions as the South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a Level 6 Orange Warning for disruptive rain affecting parts of KwaZulu-Natal.
Thunderstorms may also occur over parts of the Free State.
Weather advisories further warn of the possibility of light snowfall over high-lying areas of the Drakensberg.
Road users should also expect fog, mist, frost and freezing temperatures, particularly along high-lying sections of the N3 Toll Route, including Van Reenen Pass.
Where temperatures fall below freezing, black ice may form on road surfaces, creating hazardous driving conditions that are often difficult to detect.
Poor visibility, particularly during periods of heavy rain, in dense mist, and at night, may significantly increase travel risks.
“Planning ahead, being prepared, and relying on informed decision-making remain some of the most effective ways for road users to manage risks when travelling,” says Thania Dhoogra, chief operating officer of N3TC, the company managing the 415 km N3 Toll Route between Cedara in KwaZulu-Natal and Heidelberg in Gauteng.
“Adverse weather does not have to result in an emergency. The key is to adapt your travel plans to the prevailing conditions. If weather conditions deteriorate, delaying a journey or allowing extra travel time may be the safest decision.”
Ms Dhoogra further encourages road users to adjust both their driving style and expectations when travelling in adverse weather.
“Drivers should reduce speed, increase following distances, switch on their headlights when visibility is poor, and avoid sudden braking or over-steering. Conditions can change rapidly, especially along the high-lying sections of the route, so remaining alert and informed throughout the journey is essential.”
Travellers are encouraged to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy before departure and to carry essential emergency supplies, including drinking water, warm clothing and blankets, prescribed medication, a charged mobile phone and charging cable, snacks, a flashlight and any other items that may be required should unexpected delays occur.
Extra caution for livestock transporters
Transport operators moving livestock are urged to exercise additional caution during the forecast adverse weather.
The movement of animals under adverse or bitterly cold conditions may severely affect both the safety and wellbeing of livestock.
“Transporters are encouraged to closely monitor developing weather conditions, and to consider postponing planned journeys if the comfort and safety of their vulnerable cargo may be compromised,” says Ms Dhoogra.
Safety measures in place
N3TC’s Route Operations teams, together with their partners in the Road Incident Management System (RIMS), have been deployed strategically along the route and remain on standby to implement precautionary safety measures, respond to weather-related incidents, and assist road users should emergencies occur.
Road users are encouraged to remain informed before and during their journeys by monitoring real-time, verified traffic updates @N3Route on X.
Any incidents, emergencies or traffic disruptions on the N3 Toll Route should be reported immediately to the 24-hour N3 Helpline on 0800 63 43 57.
Should additional assistance be required, rapid response and support services will be dispatched to motorists in distress.
“We wish everyone travelling in the coming days, a safe and comfortable journey. Remember, road safety is a shared responsibility. Please do your part to help ensure safety, convenience, and mobility on the N3 Toll Route” concludes Ms Dhoogra.