03/06/2026
*WEATHER ADVISORY: KZN COGTA PLACES DISASTER TEAMS ON ALERT AS TEMPERATURES PLUMMET; DRIVERS AND FARMERS URGED TO TAKE CARE*
uLundi, 3 June 2026 - The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, through the Provincial Disaster Management Centre, is calling on residents, motorists, and farmers to stay vigilant as a severe weather system moves across parts of the country.
According to the official weather advisory issued by the South African Weather Service (SAWS), an intense Cut-Off Low pressure system is currently bringing bitterly cold, wet, and windy conditions to several provinces.
While the heaviest disruptive rainfall is hitting the Western and Eastern Cape, KZN is going to see a sharp drop in temperatures, with light snowfall expected over the Drakensberg mountain range tomorrow, Thursday, 4 June 2026.
N3 Corridor / Van Reenen's Pass Safe for Travel
COGTA wants to reassure motorists, truck drivers, and the general public that, according to SAWS assessments, the expected snow is not anticipated to cause disruptions or closures over the Van Reenen's Pass region of the N3 highway. KZN’s primary economic route remains open and safe. However, we urge all road users to keep a safe following distance, turn on their headlights, and drive with extra care in the wet and cold conditions.
Safety Advice for Communities:
• Look After Livestock: Farmers in high-lying areas and districts close to the Drakensberg must move their livestock and pets to adequate shelter and warmth to protect them from the severe cold.
• Hikers and Tourists: Anyone planning trips or hikes up the Drakensberg mountains should put those plans on hold. Mountain weather is unpredictable, and conditions can change rapidly.
• Avoid Fake News: We urge the public not to share unverified weather warnings or voice notes on social media, as this causes unnecessary panic. Always rely on official updates from SAWS.
Our Provincial Disaster Management Centre has activated the necessary response protocols and placed municipal disaster teams on high alert. Emergency crews are monitoring high-risk areas closely and are ready to step in should the weather take an unexpected turn for the worse.