N3 Toll Route | Traffic Update | Safety risks increase in poor weather and as night falls | 18:00, 10 August 2026 — Prevailing adverse weather, including rain, snow, mist and freezing temperatures, continues to affect parts of the N3 Toll Route, contributing to hazardous driving conditions from KwaZulu-Natal through the Free State and parts of Mpumalanga and Gauteng.
N3TC warns road users to exercise extreme caution, particularly when travelling at night.
“As night falls, these conditions can become even more challenging,” explains Thania Dhoogra, chief operating officer of N3TC.
“Reduced visibility, wet and slippery road surfaces, falling temperatures and the risk of ice forming on the road can significantly increase the dangers of night-time driving. Black ice can be particularly hazardous as it may be difficult to see, while mist, rain and snowfall can obscure road markings, other vehicles and potential hazards ahead.”
N3TC advises road users to reconsider non-essential night-time travel where conditions are particularly poor, and to stay informed of the latest, verified travel information.
“Please adjust your travel plans if necessary and follow all instructions from law enforcement officials and members of the Road Incident Management System (RIMS).
Although we have fortunately not had to implement any, traffic control measures or temporary closures *may be implemented* if conditions become treacherous,” says Ms Dhoogra.
Road users who do travel in these conditions should allow extra time and carry sufficient emergency provisions, including warm clothing and blankets, water, food, medication, a charged cellphone, a power bank and basic first-aid equipment.
N3TC Route Operations teams, together with their RIMS partners, remain ready to respond to incidents and assist road users.
Stay informed before and during your journey by following @N3Route on X for real-time, verified route and traffic information, or call the *24/7 N3 Helpline on 0800 63 43 57* to report problems or emergencies on the N3 Toll Route between Cedara in KwaZulu-Natal and Heidelberg in Gauteng.
“In difficult weather, careful planning, reduced speed and increased alertness are crucial defences. Please share the road responsibly and focus on reaching your destination safely, even if it takes much longer,” ends Ms Dhoogra.
ENDS
Issued by: N3 Toll Concession (N3TC)
