Snowfall is anticipated to affect high-lying areas of the Eastern Cape on Thursday, 4 July 2024, potentially leading to road closures and hazardous driving conditions.
Eastern Cape snowfall expected in these areas on Thursday, 4 July 2024
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued multiple warnings and advisories for Thursday, 4 July 2024, in anticipation of cold, wet, and windy weather conditions that will affect the Eastern Cape.
Snowfall is expected over several high-lying areas, significantly impacting transportation and daily activities.
Western Half of the Eastern Cape:
- Conditions: Cloudy with isolated showers over the eastern parts in the morning, otherwise fine and cold.
- Winds: Fresh to strong westerly winds along the coast.
Eastern Half of the Eastern Cape:
- Conditions: Cloudy with isolated showers in the west and light snowfalls in the northeast in the morning, otherwise partly cloudy and cold but cool along the coast.
- Winds: Moderate to fresh south-westerly winds along the coast.
Areas Affected by Snowfall:
- Penhoek Pass: Located on the N6 between Komani (Queenstown) and Jamestown, this pass is expected to be significantly impacted by snowfall, leading to potential road closures and dangerous driving conditions.
- Barkly Pass: Situated on the R58 between Elliot and Barkly East, Barkly Pass is likely to experience heavy snowfall, making travel difficult and possibly necessitating road closures.
- Lootsberg Pass: Found on the N9 between Graaff-Reinet and Middelburg, this pass will also be affected by snowfall, contributing to hazardous conditions.
- Wapadsberg Pass: Located on the R61 between Graaff-Reinet and Cradock, Wapadsberg Pass is expected to see snowfall, further complicating transportation and increasing the risk of accidents.
The snowfall in these areas is likely to lead to localised damage to settlements, both formal and informal.
Transport routes and travel services will be affected by wind and falling trees, and there is a risk of dust storms.
Small vessels are at risk of taking on water and capsizing.
Snow will lead to icy roads and railway lines, resulting in significant traffic disruptions.
The following specific regions are expected to face notable impacts:
- M_Mbhashe / The Haven: Expected snow and icy conditions could cause localised damage and disrupt transport routes.
- M_Ngqushwa / Ngqushwa: Similar conditions are forecasted, with potential damage to settlements and disruptions in travel services.
- M_Mbizana / Wild Coast Sun: The area could see significant disruptions due to snow and icy conditions.
- Umzimvubu / Mount Ayliff: Anticipated snowfall will lead to hazardous conditions and transport disruptions.
- Dr Beyers Naude – Graaff-Reinet / Graaff-Reinet: This area will experience snow, leading to dangerous travel conditions and potential road closures.
Motorists and residents in these regions are advised to exercise caution and to stay updated with the latest weather advisories from the South African Weather Service.