Sani Pass closed due to heavy snow – PHOTOS
· The South African
Heavy snowfall has forced the closure of Sani Pass, the only road linking South Africa and Lesotho across the high escarpment of the Drakensberg in KwaZulu-Natal, as severe winter weather grips parts of the country.
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The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) confirmed that the route was closed following significant snowfall on the Lesotho side of the mountain pass, raising concerns for travellers planning to cross the border.
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Provide assistance
COGTA spokesperson Senzelwe Mzila said disaster management teams had been deployed to assess conditions and provide assistance where needed.
“In the area of Sani Pass, on the Lesotho side, the road has been closed following heavy snowfall. This has an impact on travellers from KwaZulu-Natal who might be travelling towards Lesotho,” said Mzila.
The closure comes as an intense cut-off low-pressure system moves across parts of South Africa, bringing cold, wet and windy conditions to several provinces.
Placed on high alert
KwaZulu-Natal has been placed on high alert, with forecasters warning of a sharp drop in temperatures and light snowfall over parts of the Drakensberg mountain range.
“The MEC for COGTA in KwaZulu-Natal, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has placed disaster management teams across the province on high alert,” Mzila said.
“According to weather reports, the cut-off low-pressure system is currently bringing bitterly cold, wet and windy conditions. Disaster management centres within the affected areas have been activated.”
While the heaviest rainfall is expected in the Western and Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal residents have been urged to prepare for winter weather conditions that could disrupt travel and daily activities.
Appealed to parents
Authorities have also appealed to parents to ensure children are kept safe during the cold spell and warned residents to use heaters responsibly.
“The MEC has called upon parents to ensure that children are safeguarded and that those who utilise heaters use them wisely, as they do pose a risk,” Mzila added.
Emergency teams remain on standby as conditions continue to be monitored across the province.
Motorists travelling in mountainous areas have been advised to exercise caution, avoid unnecessary travel and stay informed through official weather updates and disaster management alerts.
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