Sep 22, 2024
Snowstorm on N3: Fatalities, Stranded Motorists in KwaZulu-Natal
Tragic Snowfall on N3: Fatalities and Drivers Stranded in KwaZulu-Natal
Heavy snow on N3 causes fatalities and leaves motorists stranded. Rescue efforts and relief supplies are being deployed to the affected areas.
In a devastating turn of events, the heavy snow predicted by weather experts has led to multiple fatalities and severe disruptions along the N3 highway in KwaZulu-Natal. This follows the weather warnings issued earlier in the week, as reported in our eKayzone News Blog on Friday, alerting South Africans to brace for disruptive snow and heavy rains from Thursday through the weekend. Unfortunately, the worst-case scenario has materialized.
Current Situation
Since late Friday night, heavy snowfall has been blanketing parts of KwaZulu-Natal, especially along the N3, a major transport route connecting Durban and Johannesburg. As of this morning, three deaths have been confirmed, and many motorists remain trapped in their vehicles, braving the extreme cold. Rescue teams are working tirelessly, but reports suggest that the number of casualties could rise as more areas become accessible.
The unexpected severity of the snowfall has left many unprepared, resulting in long delays, stranded vehicles, and tragic accidents. Snow has continued to fall throughout Saturday, causing widespread traffic disruptions and challenging rescue efforts.
Authorities Respond
Authorities have urged drivers to avoid traveling on the N3 and surrounding areas until conditions improve. Emergency services are currently assisting stranded individuals, but the icy and hazardous conditions are slowing down rescue efforts. Local authorities are deploying snowplows to clear the roads, but progress is slow due to the ongoing snowfall.
eKayzone Survival Advice
For those stranded in their vehicles, the situation is extremely challenging. Here's some survival advice to help you stay safe while waiting for rescue:
- Stay inside your vehicle to stay protected from the freezing temperatures.
- Keep your engine running periodically to keep warm but ensure the exhaust pipe is not blocked by snow to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. It's safest to run the engine for about 10 minutes every hour.
- If you've run out of drinking water, gather some snow in an empty bottle and place it near your car's heater outlet. The snow will melt and provide you with drinkable water. Avoid eating snow directly, as it will lower your body temperature even further.
eKayzone Weather Warnings Revisited
Our blog post on Friday, "Brace for Disruptive Snow and Heavy Rains", had warned about potential road closures, dangerous driving conditions, and possible power outages. Unfortunately, these predictions have come true, with the N3 becoming one of the most severely impacted routes. The public was advised to stay indoors and avoid traveling unless absolutely necessary—a warning that remains in effect as the cold front continues to sweep through the province.
Stay Safe: What You Can Do
For those currently in affected areas:
- Stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.
- Keep warm and ensure you have enough supplies in case of further delays.
- Check in on loved ones who might be stranded or affected by the cold weather.
- Stay updated through official weather and traffic reports, as well as eKayzone for real-time updates.
As this dangerous weather continues, we’ll keep you informed with the latest news and updates. Follow eKayzone News for all the information you need during this critical time. Let’s stay safe and take the necessary precautions during these challenging conditions.
For live updates, follow our blog.
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