Over the weekend, unseasonably late snowstorms hit coastal areas of South Africa, leading to tragic consequences. The heavy snow caused the deaths of two people and forced the closure of major highways. The provinces of KwaZulu-Natal and Free State were hardest hit, with significant disruptions to transportation, agriculture, and daily life.
The fatalities occurred due to hypothermia after two individuals became stranded in vehicles on the N3 highway, the main route to Durban. One victim, a 39-year-old woman, was stuck in a minibus. Emergency services responded to the crisis by towing dozens of trucks and cars that had become trapped in the snow. Rescue workers also delivered food and hot drinks to motorists who had been stranded for hours in freezing temperatures.
The situation remains critical as authorities now warn of potential flooding, particularly in low-lying areas. As the snow begins to melt, there is a risk that rivers and other water bodies will overflow. The Tugela River, in particular, is a major concern, and communities along its banks have been placed on high alert for possible floods.
Agriculture in the region has also suffered. Farmers have reported that their crops were buried under snow for two days, raising fears of significant losses. The unusual storm arrived just as the spring planting season was underway, adding to the challenges faced by local farmers.
Schools in KwaZulu-Natal have been temporarily closed to ensure the safety of students and staff. Thulasizwe Buthelezi, the provincial minister for cooperative governance, urged parents to keep children away from unguarded water sources such as rivers and dams, which could become hazardous as water levels rise.
Motorists in areas where the snow has been cleared were advised to drive cautiously due to slippery roads and the ongoing threat of flooding. Authorities stressed the importance of taking extra precautions to prevent further accidents and potential loss of life.
While South Africa is known for its warm climate, the rare snowstorm brought significant disruptions to transportation, agriculture, and public safety. Emergency services continue to work around the clock to assist those in need, and the focus now shifts to dealing with the aftermath of the storm, including the risk of floods and damaged crops. The full impact of the storm is still being assessed, but for now, ensuring the safety of those in affected areas remains the top priority.