Snow closes Western Cape pass

2012-07-16 11:11

Cape Town - The Swartberg Pass between Prince Albert and Oudtshoorn remained closed on Monday due to snowfall, Western Cape traffic chief Kenny Africa said.

Motorists were also warned of slow traffic due to a rockfall on the N2 at Sir Lowry's Pass, between Grabouw and Somerset West, on Sunday.

"The rocks are still blocking one or two lanes... we are redirecting traffic at the blockage through one open lane. A few of the rocks are the size of cars," he said.

According to the Cape Times, two cars were hit by some of the rocks. Twelve people, including six children, sustained scratches and bruises.

Africa said they managed to locate an ambulance that had gone missing in heavy snow while en route from Beaufort West to Loxton on Saturday.

"It got stuck in snow. Some of the farmers in Loxton rescued the driver and passenger and took them to safety. The vehicle is now back in Beaufort West."

Emergency service officials were kept busy at the weekend because of bad weather.

On Sunday morning, a minibus-taxi lost control and overturned on the R43 outside Hermanus, killing a man and woman. The driver and two passengers were seriously injured.

Africa said 24 roadblocks were held at the weekend to prevent speeding and drunk driving.

"People are still driving under the influence whether the weather is bad [or not]," he said.

Ten people were arrested for drinking and driving, and another 140 for speeding.

- SAPA