Snow, icy roads possible as cold front hits KZN

Snowfall, icy roads and possible traffic disruptions are expected in parts of KwaZulu-Natal as an intense cold front moves across the province. The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned that a cut-off low is expected to develop over the central interior on Monday, resulting in a sharp drop in freezing levels and temperatures. The conditions could result in light to moderate snowfall over the south-western parts of KZN from Monday into Tuesday, with snow also possible on mountain peaks.

The weather service warned that icy roads could lead to traffic disruptions, while some non-major mountain passes could be temporarily closed. There is also a risk of isolated losses of vulnerable livestock and crops as temperatures drop. Meanwhile, an earlier warning for disruptive rain remains in place until Monday night.

Scattered showers and rain associated with the intense cold front are expected to affect much of KZN, with disruptive rain possible over the extreme southern parts of the province from late Sunday evening and across most of KZN on Monday, except the north-east. The rain could result in localised flooding of vulnerable formal and informal settlements, low-lying roads and bridges. Motorists have also been warned of difficult driving conditions, particularly on dirt roads, with poor visibility and slippery roads potentially contributing to minor crashes. Major roads could be affected, with motorists advised to expect longer travel times.