Heavy snowfall has forced the closure of three major mountain passes in the Eastern Cape, leaving motorists stranded and prompting emergency responses. The Eastern Cape Department of Transport announced the closures on Monday, advising drivers to avoid the affected routes until further notice. The closures were reported in the northern parts of the province, where snowfall has significantly impacted road conditions (sundayworld.co.za).

Emergency teams are currently assisting stranded motorists, with authorities in KwaZulu-Natal also restricting access to snow-affected roads. The South African Weather Service had previously issued a Yellow Level 2 warning for disruptive snow, predicting up to 35 centimeters of snow in some areas (iol.co.za). This weather event has caused widespread disruption, with several motorists left stranded due to the hazardous conditions (thesouthafrican.com).

The situation highlights the challenges posed by extreme weather in the region, with officials urging caution and patience as they work to clear the roads and restore normal traffic flow.

Sources
  • sundayworld.co.za — Snow closes three Eastern Cape mountain passes
  • thesouthafrican.com — Snow leaves motorists stranded as three Eastern Cape mountain passes CLOSED
  • IOL — Eastern Cape braces for disruptive snow and heavy rain as cold front approaches