Transport Department Urges Extreme Caution as Severe Weather Threatens Roads Until January 10

by Hope Ngobeni

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The National Department of Transport has issued a stern warning to motorists, urging extreme caution on South Africa’s roads as hazardous weather conditions are expected to affect key provinces until Friday, January 10. Following recent weather reports, the department has advised road users to prepare for heavy rain, strong winds, and significantly reduced visibility, all of which will create treacherous driving conditions. The bad weather, predicted to begin on Wednesday, is set to impact major routes across KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, and Mpumalanga, with slippery roads posing a significant risk to both motorists and pedestrians.

The department has strongly recommended that drivers avoid traveling between 6 p.m. and 1 a.m. in the affected provinces, as the combination of rain, wind, and poor visibility will make conditions even more dangerous. The warning specifically targets roads in Limpopo, where several key routes, including the N1 and R101 connecting Limpopo to Gauteng, are expected to be slippery and hazardous. The N11, R33, and R40 in Limpopo, along with major routes in Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal such as the N4, N12, and N17, will also be affected by the adverse weather, all contributing to the overall risk of road accidents.

While the weather conditions are expected to subside by Thursday and Friday, early morning thundershowers will continue to impact Mpumalanga and Limpopo. This period will be marked by poor visibility and additional slippery conditions, particularly on the R573 Moloto Road, which links Marble Hall to Pretoria. The department has warned that even though no further warnings have been issued for Thursday and Friday, the early hours of the morning will present challenges for commuters, especially those heading back from the holidays. The risk of accidents, especially on poorly lit roads and during peak morning hours, remains high.

Motorists are urged to take additional precautions during this period of adverse weather. The department has emphasized the importance of keeping headlights on during the day to enhance visibility, even when it’s not fully dark. Maintaining a safe following distance is also critical, especially when driving on wet and slippery roads, as stopping distances are longer in these conditions. Speed limits should be respected, but drivers are also advised to reduce their speed further to account for the compromised road conditions. Additionally, those traveling across bridges where there is visible water overflow should refrain from attempting to cross, as swift currents can quickly make these structures unsafe.

Pedestrians are not exempt from the risks posed by these severe weather conditions. The department has also urged walkers to exercise caution when crossing streets, advising them to use marked intersections and to wear bright or reflective clothing when walking in poorly lit areas. Given the limited visibility caused by heavy rainfall and storms, it is essential for pedestrians to be visible to drivers at all times to avoid accidents. The increased pedestrian and vehicle traffic, especially during the holiday return rush, makes this a particularly dangerous period for all road users.

The department’s warning comes amidst growing concern over the rising number of road accidents and fatalities in South Africa. In light of the heightened risks associated with adverse weather, motorists are strongly encouraged to take responsibility for their safety and the safety of others on the road. By adhering to the safety guidelines issued by the National Department of Transport, South Africans can play a vital role in reducing the number of accidents during this perilous period, ensuring that the festive season ends without further loss of life.

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