Many parts of the country were covered in snow today. The South African weather service says today is possibly the first time that snow has fallen in all nine provinces. The weather service says it’s not unusual to have snowfall just before spring arrives.

And while it’s picturesque and led to much fun, the snow wreaked havoc on the roads. In the Eastern and Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal several passes remain closed. Several border posts between South Africa and Lesotho have also been closed until further notice.

In Johannesburg, one of the most famous landmarks, Sentech, was obscured from view by the snow. A warning was sent out to motorists to be extra vigilant.

Road closures include the N-3 Toll road. About 200 freight trucks were stuck at the Tugela plaza near

In the Vaal, many motorists were greeted by a light dusting of snow. Some struggled their way through the unusual sight in traffic, but for most it was all fun and games.

In KwaZulu-Natal, a red alert has been issued to all emergency services in case of a disaster. More than 500 blankets and food parcels are on standby. Road closures include the N-3 Toll road. About 200 freight trucks were stuck at the Tugela plaza near Estcourt.

Netcare spokesperson Chris Botha says, “We ask them to slow down. People do get into a frenzy – keep the following distance and when you park on the side of the road ensure you  are safe and don’t hinder any traffic. Visibility is expected to get worse and we as people take caution.”

In the Eastern Cape, temperatures plummeted to below zero. Farmers say early warnings from the weather service helped bring down stock losses.

In the Free State, temperatures did not peak above five degrees today.

Meanwhile, power capacity is expected to be tight. Eskom says the cold weather will increase demand and consumers need to lower their consumption. The weatherman has warned that it could warm up later this week.

 

Source: http://www.sabc.co.za