Free State, 10 August 2026 – The South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) urges motorists to exercise extreme caution and, where possible, postpone non-essential travel as heavy snowfall, rainfall, strong winds and icy conditions affect parts of the southern and southeastern Free State Province. The adverse weather conditions are particularly affecting sections of the N1 between Edenburg and Springfontein, R34 between Welkom and Kroonstad, The N6 between Reddersburg and the Smithfield and the R704 between Dewetsdorp and Wepener. The intensifying snowfall and icy conditions may result in temporary road closures and travel delays.
SANRAL is monitoring the situation in collaboration with its Road Incident Management Systems (RIMS) teams, the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI), the Free State Department of Transport and other law-enforcement agencies, which are deployed across affected areas to monitor road conditions and respond to incidents.
Traffic Alerts for possible closures:
N1: Edenburg – Springfontein
Heavy snowfall is being experienced along sections of the N1 between Edenburg and Springfontein with conditions being continuously assessed. Motorists should be prepared for possible temporary road closures, particularly where snow and ice create unsafe conditions for vehicles. The road remains open. Motorists should lower speeds to limit the risk associated with the driving conditions.
R34: Welkom – Kroonstad
Motorists travelling on the R34 between Welkom and Kroonstad are advised that rain is currently affecting the route. This section of road is known for experiencing localised flooding during periods of heavy rainfall, and road conditions may deteriorate with little warning.
N6:– Reddersburg – Smithfield
Motorists travelling on the N6 between Reddersburg and Smithfield are advised that snow has been reported along sections of the route. At present, the road remains open and drivable, however driving conditions may be affected by reduced traction, cold temperatures, and the possibility of icy patches.
R702: Dewetsdorp – Wepener
The R702 national road is icy. that is the road between Dewetsdorp and Wepener, the one that is going to the Van Rooyen’s Hek to Lesotho.
The current conditions in the Free State are not entirely conducive to driving, given that the adverse weather conditions are being experienced over a long weekend and that motorists need to return from their destinations SANRAL urges the public to postpone non-essential travel. If travel is unavoidable, motorists are urged to exercise extreme caution by reducing speed, maintaining a safe following distance, using headlights, and remaining alert to changing road conditions. As many South Africans may have limited experience driving in snow and icy conditions, SANRAL advises road users to proceed with caution follow all traffic regulations and follow instructions issued by law enforcement and emergency officials.
Marlize Nel Verwey, SANRAL’s Provincial Head for the Free State Province, encourages motorists to reduce their speed, maintain a safe following distance, keep their headlights switched on, and remain alert to rapidly changing road and weather conditions. As many South Africans may have limited experience driving in snowy and icy conditions, extra vigilance, patience, and caution are essential.
“SANRAL urges motorists to postpone all non-essential travel as adverse weather conditions continue to affect routes across the Free State. Snowfall, icy roads and rainfall may result in hazardous driving conditions, road closures and delays. Motorists who must travel should exercise extreme caution, obey all official instructions and never bypass road closures or barricades. The safety of road users remains the highest priority,” said Nel Verwey.
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For editorial content or additional information contact Lwando Mahlasela on 082 440 5305 or pressoffice@nra.co.za