KwaZulu-Natal, 10 August 2026 – The South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) is urging motorists to exercise extreme caution and, where possible, postpone non-essential travel as heavy snowfall, rainfall, strong winds and icy conditions affect parts of southern and north-western KwaZulu-Natal. The adverse weather conditions are particularly affecting sections of the N2 between Brooksnek (Kokstad) and Harding, as well as the N3 Van Reenen Pass towards Mooi River and Balgowan areas. The intensifying snowfall and icy conditions may result in temporary road closures and travel delays.
“SANRAL is closely monitoring the situation in collaboration with its Road Incident Management Systems (RIMS) teams, the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI), the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport and other law-enforcement agencies, which are deployed across affected areas to monitor road conditions and respond to incidents. A rapid-response snowfall management plan has been activated, including the deployment of a salt-brine mixture to strategic locations. The brine helps prevent ice from bonding to the road surface and limits snow accumulation. Additional resources are being positioned in high-risk areas, including Harding and Isingisi, said Mandla Biyela, SANRAL’s KwaZulu-Natal Operations and Maintenance Manager
Traffic Alerts for possible closures:
N2: Kokstad – Harding
Heavy snowfall is being experienced along sections of the N2 between Kokstad and Harding, with conditions being continuously assessed. Motorists should be prepared for possible temporary road closures, particularly where snow and ice create unsafe conditions for vehicles.
N3: Van Reenen Pass – Mooi River
Snowfall, heavy rainfall and strong winds are also being monitored along the N3 Van Reenen Pass and towards Mooi River, with adverse conditions reported in and around the Nottingham Road area.
The combination of snowfall, wet and slippery road surfaces, strong winds and reduced visibility presents a significant safety risk to motorists. Road users are urged to reduce their speed, increase following distances, switch on their headlights and exercise extreme caution when travelling through affected areas.
The South African Weather Service has issued severe weather warnings for parts of KwaZulu-Natal over the next two days, with widespread rainfall, heavy rain, icy conditions and snowfall expected across several areas, including parts of the Drakensberg, Underberg, uMgungundlovu and uThukela districts. Weather conditions may deteriorate rapidly, increasing the risk of hazardous driving conditions, road closures and travel delays.
“We urge motorists to exercise extreme caution and, where possible, postpone non-essential journeys until weather and road conditions improve. Snow, ice, heavy rainfall, strong winds and reduced visibility can make driving extremely hazardous. Motorists who need to travel are urged to reduce their speed, maintain a safe following distance, use their headlights and remain alert to changing road conditions. They should also comply with instructions from traffic officials and other authorities on the ground,” added Biyela.
SANRAL urges motorists to delay non-essential travel to affected areas, as deteriorating weather conditions may result in temporary road closures and significant delays. Motorists are encouraged to plan travel ahead, exercise extreme caution, follow instructions from officials and never attempt to bypass road closures or barricades.
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For editorial content or additional information contact Lwando Mahlasela on 082 440 5305 or pressoffice@nra.co.za