Johannesburg – The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has cautioned motorists to drive carefully after the SA Weather Service issued an alert of severe wet weather in most parts of the country.
“Motorists travelling to KwaZulu-Natal, Free State, and Eastern Cape are advised to exercise caution on the roads as the SA Weather Service has issued a warning of widespread showers and thunderstorms over most parts of the country,” Simon Zwane, RTMC spokesperson, said on Sunday, (10 November 2024).
“These thunderstorms are expected to be severe and accompanied by strong damaging winds, excessive lighting, large hail amounts of heavy downpours.”
The N3 road between Johannesburg and Durban is often affected by misty conditions, particularly around Van Reenen Pass and Hilton.
The road is also under construction between Pietermaritzburg and Durban which may cause delays. Drivers are advised to switch their lights on to improve visibility.
“We urge motorists to obey all road traffic rules and exercise extreme caution and patience,” Zwane said.
The impact of these heavy rains and thunderstorms may lead to flooding of roads resulting in the closure of some bridges and roads.
Other possible hazards include falling trees on roads and fast-flowing streams over low-lying bridges. The RTMC warns motorists to avoid driving in heavy rain due to poor visibility.
“If possible, park and wait until the rain has slowed or stopped to continue your journey,” said RTMC.
“Motorists should avoid driving across a flooded road. Water may be deeper and stronger than it appears and may contain debris, sharp or dangerous objects.
“Vehicles can become unstable or even swept away if caught up in fast-flowing or pooling flood waters.
“Remember to keep a first aid kit and always ensure you have the necessary emergency numbers at hand someone knows the route you are travelling.”
