Level 4 snow warning: KZN motorists urged to stay off roads
Updated Aug. 11, 2026, 11:48 a.m. | By Lauren Hendricks and Bulletin The SA Weather Service has upgraded its alert for the western high grounds of KZN to…
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Updated Aug. 11, 2026, 11:48 a.m. | By Lauren Hendricks and Bulletin
The SA Weather Service has upgraded its alert for the western high grounds of KZN to Yellow Level 4 with more snow expected on Tuesday.
Emergency services are urging motorists to avoid KwaZulu-Natal's snow-hit roads unless travel is necessary.
The warning follows multiple crashes and injuries reported on Monday, as people flocked to see the snowfall.
Weather forecasters say more snow is expected to fall on Tuesday. The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has upgraded its alert for the western high grounds of KZN to a Yellow level 4 warning for disruptive snow, with isolated losses of vulnerable livestock and crops still possible.
ALS Paramedics spokesperson Garrith Jamieson says they have been inundated with calls, including reports of multiple crashes on wet and slippery roads.
"[There were also] some injuries in the snow as people were chasing snow even though there [were] warnings by RTI and [the] SAPS [urging people] to please not go looking for snow. Obviously, this increases the traffic volume and increases collisions on the road," he says.
Roland Robertson, Midlands EMS spokesperson, says their crews are on standby in the Howick and Midlands areas.
" Midland EMS has dedicated 4x4 rescue vehicles available to assist people who may become stranded or need emergency assistance in snow-affected and difficult-to-reach areas,” says Robertson.
"We urge everyone travelling in and around the affected areas to exercise extreme caution and avoid unnecessary travel where possible and take extra care on the road."
Emergency crews are urging motorists to ensure their vehicles, tyres, headlights, and windscreen wipers are in good condition and to allow extra time on the road, rather than rushing.
Very cold, windy conditions are also expected in places across the KZN interior.
Eastern Cape mountain passes reopen
Meanwhile, all mountain passes in the Eastern Cape that were closed on Monday due to heavy snowfall have reopened.
Unathi Binqose, who is with the provincial transport department, has warned that roads remain wet and slippery.
The Penhoek Pass on the N6 between Komani and James Calata is experiencing thick fog and drizzle, reducing visibility.
He says low-lying areas towards the coast continue to experience cold weather, rainfall, and mist.
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