30 Jun 2023 | 11:11 AM UTC
South Africa: Part of the N7 highway in the Northern Cape Province remains closed as of June 30
Part of the N7 highway in the Northern Cape Province, South Africa, remains closed due to flooding as of June 30.
Event
Part of the N7 highway, located approximately 10 km (6 miles) south of Vioolsdrift in the Northern Cape Province, remains closed as of June 30 due to recent flooding. The road has also been damaged; the South African National Roads Agency Limited (SANRAL) has indicated that even once flood waters recede that disruptions will persist as emergency crews will be deployed to repair the road surface. Persons intending to travel to or from Namibia via the nearby border crossing have been advised to utilize the Alexander Bay border crossing via the Steinkopf intersection towards Port Nolloth along the R382 road. It is not clear how long the roadway will be closed. It is also not clear if additional customs officials have been deployed to the Alexander Bay border site to assist with the likely increase in traffic.
The closure of a major arterial route connecting South Africa and Namibia will likely lead to increased travel time for passenger and freight vehicles. Additional delays at the Alexandra Bay border are also likely.
Advice
Prepare for additional delays if transiting the Alexander Bay border crossing in the coming days. Heed the instructions of officials. Drive with caution along roadways, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall.
