Barkly Pass Shuts Down Amidst Winter’s Wrath Barkly Pass, a scenic mountain pass in the Eastern Cape of South Africa, has been forced to close indefinitely due to heavy snowfall that has rendered the route impassable. The announcement was made by the South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL), citing safety concerns for motorists. The pass, which connects the towns of Barkly East and Lady Grey, is a popular tourist destination, known for its rugged terrain and panoramic views. However, the recent weather conditions have transformed it into a hazardous zone, with snowdrifts accumulating in excess of two meters in height. SANRAL crews are working tirelessly to clear the snow and reopen the pass as soon as possible. However, the snowfall has been relentless, and the agency has warned that it could take several days before the route is safe for travel. Motorists are advised to avoid the area until further notice and to use alternative routes. The closure has disrupted both tourism and commercial traffic, with businesses and residents relying on the pass for access to goods and services. The heavy snowfall has also caused power outages in surrounding areas, as power lines have been downed by the weight of the snow. Eskom, the national electricity provider, is working to restore power as quickly as possible. While the closure of Barkly Pass is a setback, it serves as a reminder of the power of nature and the importance of being prepared for severe weather events. As the Eastern Cape continues to grapple with the aftermath of the snowfall, the community is coming together to support one another and ensure that essential services are maintained.Snowfall Closes Mountain Passes in Eastern CapeSnowfall Closes Mountain Passes in Eastern Cape Heavy snowfall has forced the closure of the Barkly Pass on the R58 between Barkly East and Elliot in the Eastern Cape. Traffic officials are on high alert and monitoring other mountain routes, including the Penhoek Pass on the N6, the Lootsberg Pass on the N9, and the Wapadsberg Pass on the R61. These passes may also be closed if snowfall continues. Road users are advised to exercise caution and avoid driving in these areas unless absolutely necessary. The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has also issued a warning of strong winds for the Buffalo City metropolitan area. Emergency teams are monitoring the situation on beaches, as the winds are expected to intensify later today. Affected Roads: * Barkly Pass (R58) between Barkly East and Elliot * Penhoek Pass (N6) between Komani and Jamestown * Lootsberg Pass (N9) between Graaff-Reinet and Middelburg * Wapadsberg Pass (R61) between Graaff-Reinet and Cradock Advice for Road Users: * Check road conditions before traveling * Avoid driving in affected areas unless necessary * Be cautious and slow down when approaching mountain passes * Obey traffic signage and instructions from authorities * Report any road closures or incidents to the Eastern Cape Department of TransportBarkly Pass in the Eastern Cape has been closed to traffic due to heavy snowfall, the South African National Roads Agency (Sanral) has announced. The pass, which links the towns of Elliot and Barkly East, was closed on Monday morning after snow began to accumulate on the road. Sanral spokesperson Vusi Mona said that the pass would remain closed until further notice. “We are advising motorists to avoid using the pass until it is reopened,” Mona said. Mona said that snow removal teams were on standby to clear the road as soon as the weather conditions improved. The closure of Barkly Pass comes as the Eastern Cape experiences a cold snap, with temperatures dropping below freezing in many parts of the province. The South African Weather Service has issued a warning for snow and ice in the high-lying areas of the Eastern Cape, including the Drakensberg Mountains. Motorists are advised to be cautious when driving in these areas and to be prepared for icy conditions.