Snowfall has been recorded across parts of the Drakensberg as authorities intensify monitoring of major transport routes and vulnerable communities across KwaZulu-Natal.
According to the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport, Road Traffic Inspectorate officials have confirmed snowfall along Sani Pass near the Lesotho border.
Snow has also been reported around Mount Fletcher, while rainfall is affecting Underberg.
With conditions expected to deteriorate, grader operators have been placed on standby to clear affected routes before snow accumulations exceed 30cm.
Van Reenen’s Pass, between Harrismith and Ladysmith, is also being closely monitored. Authorities are prepared to close the route if conditions become unsafe.
“This will help to prevent motorists from being stuck on the N3,” the Department of Transport stated.
Early effects of the weather system are also being observed along the KwaZulu-Natal coast.
A Human Settlements roving team reported drizzle in parts of Durban and other coastal municipalities, while informal settlements in coastal and low-lying areas are being monitored for possible flooding.
Working with the eThekwini Municipality’s Human Settlements and Infrastructure teams, the Department has made more than 170 rooms available at the recently acquired Montclair Lodge. The accommodation will be used for families who may be displaced by flooding.
Preventative work is also underway at Quarry Heights Bridge, which was partially destroyed during the 2022 floods. Gabions are being installed by eThekwini Municipality to reduce soil erosion and restore damaged sidewalks.
The Department of Transport has also installed culverts at several bridges to prevent water from accumulating on roads and contributing to flooding.
These developments follow precautionary measures announced ahead of the adverse weather.
Newcastillian News reported on 28 July 2026 that disaster management teams had been placed on high alert across the province.
RTI units were deployed along major routes, including the N2, N3 and N11, while response teams were positioned in Ladysmith, Kokstad, Underberg, Harding, Newcastle and Pietermaritzburg in preparation for possible road closures.
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The South African Weather Service has attributed the conditions to a cut-off low-pressure system affecting KwaZulu-Natal and neighbouring regions.
Motorists travelling through high-lying areas, mountain passes and along major routes have been urged to exercise caution. Conditions can change rapidly, while snow, rainfall and falling temperatures may affect road surfaces and visibility.
Residents should continue following official weather and road updates, while motorists are advised to avoid non-essential travel through affected areas where possible.
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