Several Eastern Cape roads closed following heavy snowfall

A number of Eastern Cape roads have been closed due to heavy snowfall. Provincial Department of Transport Spokesperson Unathi Binqose says motorists should avoid the R56 road between Molteno and Steenburg and consider alternatives routes.

Binqose says vehicles are stuck on the N9 at Lootsberg Pass Between Graff Reinet and Middleburg. He has appealed to motorists to exercise caution.

“Apart from the four routes that have already closed due to snow, two passes the Noco Malan Pass as well as the Barkly Pass closures there are also imminent. We want to urge motorists to avoid all the roads in highlighting areas, as temperatures have plummeted significantly and roads continue to be slippery due to cold conditions. So, if you do not have to be on the road stay at home,” says Binqose.

If you are traveling through EC https://t.co/0ZPB0uFWqj

— SA Weather Service (@SAWeatherServic) July 22, 2021

Meanwhile, snow is falling in some parts of the Northern Cape – including Kimberley amid a cold front. The South African Weather Service issued a warning of snow and cold weather over the Western Cape, Northern Cape and Gauteng. The mercury dropped to below minus in certain areas.

Children in Kimberley who were lucky to catch the snowflakes are overwhelmed with joy.

“I’m so excited for the snow and I hope it snows more so I can throw mommy and daddy with the snowballs. I love snow, it’s the first time I see it in Kimberley. I want to build a snowman and want it to snow more. It’s a little bit cold.”

Snow has started falling in parts of the Northern Cape – including Kimberley amid a severe cold front. The South African Weather Service issued a warning of snow and cold weather over the Western Cape, Northern Cape and Gauteng. #sabcnews

[PICTURES: Edward Maretjies] pic.twitter.com/2SFlpEOmDO

— Reginald (@ReggieReporter) July 22, 2021