Heavy snowfall in South Africa's Eastern Cape province has forced the closure of three mountain passes and left motorists stranded on the roads [1].
The closures disrupt critical transport links in the region and threaten the local agricultural economy by damaging grazing land used for livestock [1].
Authorities closed the Barkly Pass, located on the R58 between Khowa and Barkly East, as part of the emergency response [1]. The Penhoek Pass, which connects Komani and Jamestown via the N6, is also shut to traffic [1]. Additionally, the Boesmashoek Pass between Sterkstroom and Molteno remains closed due to unsafe road conditions [1].
SABC News reporter Nkululeko Nyembezi said the accumulation of snow has made these high-altitude routes impassable for standard vehicles [1]. The sudden weather shift has trapped travelers who were unable to navigate the snow-covered terrain before the closures took effect [1].
Local officials said the conditions are hazardous for both drivers and animals. The heavy snowfall has not only blocked transit, but has also impacted the availability of forage for livestock in the affected mountain areas [1].
Emergency services continue to monitor the situation as they work to ensure the safety of stranded motorists. The three closed passes [1] represent some of the most vulnerable points in the provincial road network during winter peaks.
“Heavy snowfall in South Africa's Eastern Cape province has forced the closure of three mountain passes”
The closure of these specific passes highlights the vulnerability of the Eastern Cape's infrastructure to extreme weather events. Because these routes serve as primary arteries for both commercial transport and agricultural movement, prolonged closures can lead to supply chain delays and economic losses for livestock farmers who rely on accessible grazing lands.
