South Africa: Further weather-related disruptions likely following snowfall in Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, Sept. 22 /update 2

As of Sept. 22, further disruptions following heavy snowfall are likely in the coming hours in parts of KwaZulu-Natal and Free State provinces. Authorities have closed the N3 highway at Van Reenen's Pass between Tugela Plaza and Harrismith; increased congestion is being reported in the area. Meteorological services do not forecast further showers in the coming hours and have lifted most weather warnings; the South African Weather Service (SAWS) is maintaining orange-level warnings along major highways in KwaZulu-Natal, including the N2, N3, and M4. Air traffic at Durban's King Shaka International Airport (DUR) and Pietermaritzburg Airport (PZB) have not been impacted. One person has reportedly died from hypothermia after being stranded overnight Sept. 20-21.

Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days. The inclement weather will likely cause further ground transport disruptions across the affected areas. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are probable along regional highways. Dangerous and challenging driving conditions are especially likely on secondary and rural roads as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. The disruptive weather will probably cause delays and cancellations at airports in the affected regions. Sporadic power outages may occur throughout the affected area. Authorities will probably close additional highway stretches if driving conditions become too hazardous. Gusty winds will threaten to topple high-profile vehicles throughout the affected areas. As a precaution, additional mountain passes and tunnels will likely be closed during periods of intense snowfall.