Families await news of loved ones stuck in the snow

By Everson Luhanga

Heavy snowfall has caused chaos in parts of KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, Free Stateand Gauteng.

Some land entry ports have been temporarily closed while scramble to rescue motorists stuck in snow since Friday evening.

A distressed parent, Marichen Du Plessis, wrote on his Facebook, pleading for help for his son who’s been stuck in snow with an infant. “If anyone can assist my son, his wife, and newborn baby, they’re stuck in snow, 26 minutes from Harrismith on R74. They urgently need help with the baby. Please let me know if you can help.”

KwaZulu police helped out and gave warm food to commuters stuck on N3 between Estcourt and Mooi River since Friday.

According to KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda, stranded commuters include police officers providing security services to fellow commuters.

“The KwaZulu-Natal police management has mobilised business partners to prepare food and warm clothing for those stuck in freezing snow.

Despite unfavourable flying conditions, police and rescue entities are braving conditions to preserve life and deliver essential services,” said Netshiunda.

Meanwhile, Border Management Authority Commissioner Dr. Michael Masiapato issued a notice to travellers about persistent snowfall making conditions risky at some ports of entry.

Given the situation, BMA and partners have closed Sani Pass, Boesmansnek, and Monontsha ports until further notice.

“This precaution ensures the safety of travellers, tourists, and officials, as current conditions pose significant danger,” Dr. Masiapato said. Travellers can use Ficksburg port, Caledonspoort, Makhaleng, and Maseru Ports as alternatives to enter Lesotho.

Pictured above: Motorists stuck in snow

Source: X)