Last weekend, snowfall transformed most parts of KwaZulu-Natal into a magical wonderland, with many making snowman while having their drinks and even claiming to be overseas when sharing their photos on social media. However, while last weekend was a joyous one for those who have never experienced snowfall, many motorists were left stranded for more than 24 hours on the N3, resulting in one death. KZN Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs has issued a warning about the strong possibility of another snowfall on Monday, 30 September 2024, and Tuesday, 1 October 2024.

 MORE SNOWFALL EXPECTED 

The department said they have been in contact with South African Weather Services, who informed them that early forecasts suggest extremely cold temperatures on the days, potentially resulting in snowfall in areas around the Drakensberg mountains. Spokesperson for the department, Senzele Mzila, said this includes parts of the Amajuba District, uThukela, Harry Gwala, and uMgungundlovu Districts. "While this forecast is preliminary, further updates are expected. Residents across the province are assured that the Provincial Disaster Management Centre will continue to engage directly with stakeholders, including municipalities through the respective District Disaster Management Centres, social partners, and government entities responsible for law enforcement, disaster response and roads, to ensure plans are in place to deal with any eventuality should the weather conditions deteriorate," he said. He added: "Residents are urged to monitor weather forecasts through reliable sources."

 ROAD SAFETY MEASURES IN PLACE

Department of Transport and Human Settlements MEC Siboniso Duma also announced that they have decided to strengthen road safety measures following last weekend's heavy snowfall that resulted in thousands of motorists being trapped along major routes. "Traffic officers are already involved in the coordination of possible road closures and observation of major routes in consultation with N3 Toll Concession," Duma said. Snow Report Southern Africa has also issued a forecast, suggesting anything from very light to significant snowfall across KwaZulu-Natal, Western Cape, Northern Cape, Eastern Cape, Free State, Mpumalanga and Lesotho.