Motorists advised to exercise caution amid rainy weather

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The Road Traffic Management Corporation(RTMC) has cautioned motorists travelling to KwaZulu-Natal, Free State and Eastern Cape to exercise caution on the roads.

This as the South African Weather Service has issued a warning of widespread showers and thunderstorms over most parts of the country.

According to the corporation, these thunderstorms are expected to be severe and accompanied by strong damaging winds, excessive lighting, large hail amounts of heavy downpours.

The N3 road between Johannesburg and Durban is often affected by misty conditions particularly around Van Reenen Pass and Hilton.

The road is also under construction between Pietermaritzburg and Durban which may cause delays. Drivers are advised to switch their lights on to improve visibility.

RTMC spokesperson Simon Zwane urged motorists to obey all road traffic rules and exercise extreme caution and patience.

“The impact of these heavy rains and thunderstorms may lead to flooding of roads resulting in closure of some bridges and roads.

”Falling trees blocking major roads and danger to life of motorists due to fast flowing streams. We warn motorists to avoid driving in heavy rain due to poor visibility.

“If possible, park and wait until the rain has slowed or stopped to continue your journey,” he added.

Zwane stated that motorists should avoid driving across a flooded road as water may be deeper and stronger than it appears and may contain debris, sharp or dangerous objects.

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He continued; “Vehicles can become unstable or even swept away if caught up in fast flowing or pooling flood waters.

“Remember to keep a first aid kit and always ensure you have the necessary emergency numbers at hand someone knows the route you are travelling.”