A rare and heavy snowfall recently impacted coastal areas of South Africa, particularly affecting the KwaZulu-Natal and Free State provinces. This unexpected weather event led to the tragic deaths of two individuals due to hypothermia after being trapped in their vehicles on the N3 highway, which connects Johannesburg to Durban. One of the victims was a 39-year-old woman who was stuck in a minibus.

The snowfall, which occurred over the weekend, resulted in substantial traffic disruptions, with reports of up to six feet of snow accumulating in some locations. Major highways, including the N3, experienced significant closures, and border crossings with Lesotho were also shut down due to hazardous road conditions. Emergency services worked tirelessly to assist stranded motorists, delivering blankets and food to those trapped for extended periods.

Local authorities have warned that as the snow begins to melt, flooding may become a concern, particularly in areas along the Tugela River. Many schools in KwaZulu-Natal have been closed, with officials urging parents to keep children away from unguarded bodies of water to prevent accidents​.