Overview
- The Eastern Cape Department of Transport said most mountain passes closed by heavy snow were reopened on Tuesday after crews cleared routes and assessed safety.
- Officials warned roads remain wet and slippery and urged motorists to approach high-lying passes with extreme caution, a message repeated by department spokesperson Unathi Binqose.
- Penhoek Pass on the N6 between Komani and James Calata is reporting fog and drizzle that has reduced visibility and continues to hamper safe travel.
- Major routes including the N9 and N6 were shut on Monday and left some motorists stranded before reopening, and government spokesperson William Baloyi said open roads may be closed again if conditions deteriorate.
- The reopenings come during a wider severe winter system affecting parts of South Africa and authorities told the public to follow updates from the South African Weather Service and traffic and emergency agencies because conditions remain changeable.