Gale force winds on N3 prompt safety warning for motorists

Gale force winds on N3 prompt safety warning for motorists

The N3 Toll Concession says gale-force winds of around 70km/h are affecting the Van Reenen Pass area between KZN and the Free State.

Toll gate on the N3 freeway in South Africa
Toll gate on the N3 freeway in South Africa/iStock/Graham Montanari

The N3 Toll Concession has warned that strong winds could disrupt traffic, leading to dangerous driving conditions on the N3.

The entity says gale force winds of around 70km/h are affecting the route on Van Reenen’s Pass between KZN and the Free State.

N3TC advises drivers to stay alert for debris

The N3TC says strong winds could lead to property damage and leave debris scattered along the route.

COO Thania Dhoogra has urged motorists to take precaution.

The drivers of vehicles towing trailers and trucks with high sides or carrying light loads have been urged to be extra cautious, especially between Ladysmith and Harrismith.

Dhoogra says motorists should remain alert to changing weather patterns and adapt their driving behaviour to the prevailing conditions.

Weather forecasters issue wind warning

Along the coast, there is a Yellow level 2 warning in place for damaging wind and waves.

The weather office this could make navigation at sea difficult, disrupt small harbours and ports, and increase the risk of small boats capsizing.

Meanwhile, cold, wet and windy conditions have been spreading across South Africa from Tuesday.

Forecasters say a slow-moving storm system will affect large parts of the country throughout the week.

READ: Umzimkhulu Bridge repair delays: KZN Transport addresses payment crisis

In KZN, areas along the coast and adjacent interior are under an Orange Level 6 alert for severe thunderstorms.

Other parts of the province have been placed on a Yellow Level 4 warning.

Cooperative Governance Minister Velenkosi Hlabisa has urged residents to remain alert.

Department spokesperson Pearl Maseko-Binqose says disaster management teams are closely monitoring the situation across the country.

"The Minister noted with concern that severe thunderstorms are expected across several provinces, with risks including heavy downpours, localised flooding, damaging winds, hail, and excessive lightning.

“Emergency services and disaster management teams have been placed on high alert to respond to any incidents that may arise. Communities are encouraged to report emergencies to local authorities and to cooperate with any evacuation directives where necessary."

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