SANRAL warns motorists as strong winds threaten Western Cape roads
· The South African
SANRAL has warned motorists travelling between Paarl and Worcester that sections of the N1 national toll road could close intermittently as strong, gale-force winds continue to batter parts of the Western Cape.
The warning comes as government urges the public to take precautions amid severe weather affecting several parts of the country.
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Strong winds put motorists at risk
SANRAL said it could restrict certain vehicles from using the N1 when wind speeds at the Hugo’s Viaduct reach dangerous levels.
The viaduct, located just west of the Huguenot Tunnel entrance, sits in a valley in the mountain range where strong wind gusts can become particularly dangerous.
SANRAL said powerful winds at the viaduct have previously blown trucks, smaller vehicles towing trailers and caravans off the road.
The agency monitors wind speeds at the site around the clock and introduces restrictions when gusts remain above a predetermined threshold.
SANRAL could restrict lightly loaded Class 2 to 4 goods vehicles from using the toll road during these periods.
Class 1 light motor vehicles towing high-sided trailers or caravans could also face restrictions because of the risk of being blown over.
SANRAL said it monitors conditions in real time and will lift restrictions once wind speeds return to safe levels.
Severe weather hits several provinces
The road warning comes as the South African Weather Service (SAWS) continues to issue severe weather warnings across parts of the country.
Government said heavy rain, severe thunderstorms, flooding and damaging winds could affect several provinces from September 4.
An Orange Level 5 warning remains in place for parts of the Northern Cape, where intense thunderstorms, heavy rain and strong winds could result in flooding.
A Level 4 warning for severe thunderstorms also covers parts of the central and eastern Northern Cape, western Free State, southern KwaZulu-Natal and North West.
Damaging winds are also affecting parts of the Western Cape.
Deputy government spokesperson William Baloyi said the conditions could cause localised flooding, damage to homes and infrastructure, fallen trees and dangerous travelling conditions.
Provincial disaster management teams, traffic authorities and emergency services are monitoring the situation and coordinating responses in affected areas.
Baloyi urged residents to remain vigilant and put safety first as weather conditions continue to change.