“We have had to close the N3 Toll Route from the Wilge Toll Plaza to the Cedara Interchange near Hilton in KwaZulu-Natal,” spokeswoman Andy Visser said.

“This is due to heavy snowfall and treacherous weather conditions. Vehicles have already been snowed-in overnight close to Mooi River.”

Visser said they needed to ensure the conditions were safe before they could send emergency vehicles to assist stuck motorists.

“We understand that it is a long weekend, but we urge motorists to please not travel until the weather conditions improve in the interests of their safety,” Visser added.

ER24 spokeswoman Vanessa Jackson said various cars and people were trapped before the Mooi River Toll Plaza on Tuesday night.

“Trucks, light motor vehicles, taxis, emergency vehicles and rescuers were all stuck in the snow,” Jackson said.

“Either having slid into each other, off the road into ditches or just could not travel any further due to the chaos in front of them.”

Jackson urged motorists trapped not to panic and to stay calm until emergency services can reach them.

Meanwhile, Johannesburg Metro Police spokesman Chief Superintendent Wayne Minnaar urged motorists to be extra vigilant as more rain was expected.

“Roads are slippery when wet, motorists should reduce travelling speed, keep their headlights on and maintain a safe travelling distance when it rains,” said Minnaar. – Sapa