Motorists urged to Exercise Extreme Caution as Rain and Snow Create Hazardous Road Conditions

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EASTERN CAPE - The Joe Gqabi District Municipality advises all motorists to exercise extreme caution when travelling on roads affected by ongoing rainfall and snowfall, which have resulted in wet and slippery driving conditions.

The following routes are currently affected:

• *R56-8 (km 89.0) between Matatiele and Tlokoeng (Mount Fletcher):* Rain and snowfall have made the road surface increasingly slippery. Motorists are strongly advised to reduce speed, maintain a safe following distance, and, where possible, consider using alternative routes.
• *R56 between Ugie and Khowa (Elliot):* Light rain and snowfall are causing wet and slippery road conditions. 

Drivers are urged to remain vigilant and adjust their driving to the prevailing weather conditions.

The municipality appeals to all road users to:

• Reduce speed and avoid sudden braking or sharp turns.
• Switch on headlights to improve visibility.
• Increase following distances between vehicles.
• Avoid unnecessary travel in affected areas until conditions improve.
• Remain alert for emergency personnel and road maintenance teams operating along these routes.

The Joe Gqabi District Municipality is closely monitoring the situation in collaboration with relevant authorities and will issue further updates as weather and road conditions change.

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