South Africa: Ongoing ground travel disruptions along N9 highway near Lootsberg Pass, Eastern Cape Province, due to heavy snowfall, Nov. 5

Heavy snowfall is reportedly causing hazardous travel conditions along the N9 highway near the Lootsberg Pass, Eastern Cape Province, Nov. 5. Meteorological services do not forecast further showers in the coming hours; the South African Weather Service (SAWS) is maintaining level five warnings (on a scale of 1 through 10) in the area due to disruptive snow causing slippery roads and reduced visibility. Preliminary reports suggest the pass is still open; SAWS warns that short-period road and pass closures are possible.

Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming hours. The inclement weather will likely cause further ground transport disruptions across the affected areas. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are probable along provincial highways. Dangerous and challenging driving conditions are especially likely on secondary and rural roads as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Sporadic power outages may occur throughout the affected area. Authorities will probably close highway stretches if driving conditions become too hazardous.

The Lootsberg Pass is located about 230 km (145 miles) north of Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth).