Heavy snow cuts off Eastern Cape routes as rescue teams race to stranded motorists

Eastern Cape – The winter weather has disrupted travel across parts of the Eastern Cape, with three major mountain passes shut to traffic and motorists trapped in heavy snow.

Barkly Pass on the R58, Penhoek Pass on the N6 and Boesmanshoek Pass have all been closed as emergency crews work to rescue stranded motorists.

Heavy snowfall has transformed Rhodes in the Eastern Cape into a winter trap, leaving holidaymakers stuck. Roads are closed due to the snow. Tune in to #eNCA #Dstv403. pic.twitter.com/ooxvmMCDTl

— eNCA (@eNCA) August 10, 2026

Eastern Cape transport spokesperson Unathi Binqose urged motorists to heed the closures, warning that they had been introduced for their safety.

“There are several vehicles that are stuck in the snow with people stranded in them, and we are doing everything we can to rescue them.”

⚠️ SNOW ALERT:

Snowfall has been reported between Aliwal North, Jamestown and Komani. Penhoek Pass will be temporarily closed for safety reasons. Motorists are advised to use caution and follow updates from authorities.

🎥 EC Department of Transport pic.twitter.com/JWpC6rXahv

— Buffalo City Insider (@buffalo_insider) August 10, 2026

Officials are also monitoring other mountain passes as snowfall continues across the province’s high-lying areas.

In the Western Cape, snowfall has also affected the Swartberg Pass near Oudtshoorn in the Little Karoo.

Snowfall seen on the Swartberg Pass between Oudtshoorn and Prince Albert in the Little Karoo, Western Cape. For more, visit https://t.co/Pcfl4Rcee4

Credit: Sphiwe Hobasi pic.twitter.com/7cYXmimO0X

— SABC News (@SABCNews) August 10, 2026

The pass has been closed because of a thick layer of ice, although some motorists managed to travel through as families headed to the area to see the snow.

Traffic officials have warned motorists not to use the closed pass.