With schools reopening on Tuesday, 09 July, and the Durban July having been hosted in eThekwini this weekend, the N3 Toll Route is expected to be busier than usual in a northbound direction (i.e. towards Gauteng) today (Sunday, 07 July 2024). Traffic volumes are expected to increase from midday, with busy conditions likely to continue throughout the afternoon.

Heed weather warnings and take precautionary measures

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned of an intense cold front affecting most areas along the N3 Toll Route today. Bitterly cold temperatures and strong winds are expected to continue over the coming days.

High wind speeds increase the risk of runaway fires, property damage, and traffic disruptions. Vehicles towing trailers or caravans, and trucks carrying light loads are advised to be extra cautious, especially when traversing Van Reenen Pass between Ladysmith and Harrismith.

N3TC advises drivers to pay attention to changing road and weather patterns, “Please heed warnings, and always adapt your driving style to the prevailing conditions. For your safety and comfort, please keep extra blankets, warm clothes, emergency medication, sufficient water, food supplies, a torch, and mobile phone chargers in your vehicles,” requests Thania Dhoogra, chief operating officer of N3 Toll Concession (N3TC).

Adverse weather conditions do not only cause discomfort but could also lead to traffic delays, congestion, or even road closures in the interest of general road and public safety.

The N3TC Route Services and their partners in the Road Incident Management System (RIMS) are fully deployed along the N3 Toll Route and will provide vital incident- and traffic management services, assist during emergencies, and support road users in distress.

“Please do not hesitate to call the 24-hour N3 Helpline on 0800 63 43 57 or follow @N3Route on X for real-time, verified traffic information, to report problems, or to get emergency assistance. Road safety is a shared responsibility. Let us work together to ensure that everyone on the road enjoys a pleasant journey and reaches their destinations safely,” ends Ms Dhoogra.

ENDS.