It is difficult to quantify whether what we are experiencing as extreme weather conditions is a mere natural fluctuation of climate conditions or global warming. Therefore, preparation for the worst is of paramount importance.
The fatality over the weekend as a result of the snow that occurred in the N3 suggests that as a country, we are not ready for weather emergencies. One person froze to death as travellers were stuck on the road while they were making their way to KwaZulu-Natal. Nozibele Nzonzo, 39, died from the cold while travelling in a minibus.
Motorists were stuck near Harrismith for hours and there seemed to be little intervention from the government, relevant departments and political leaders.
It was reported that Sanral officials were struggling to clear the roads or provide time frames for when they would be able to clear the roads. Some people took to social media and reported their dignity went out the window as they had to relieve themselves on the side of the road.
Granted, warnings were issued before the occurrence, but it was demonstrated through people being stranded that they did not heed these warnings.
The trauma was immense, with others suffering hypothermia as a result. There was a limited supply of food and warmth. This signals that road users did not appreciate the level of danger they would find themselves in, even though warned. Generally, South Africa does not experience harsh weather conditions in the form of snow, but there have been enough indications that the world as we know it is no more.
The prediction of the four seasons South Africa has always experienced should be modified, as clearly the times are changing and so is the natural order of things. South Africans need to transition from the mindset of being a country that experiences a “good” climate. It is not enough to hope that civilians will take the warnings seriously, but we cannot afford to accept that the government seemed to be caught off-guard by the extremeness of the weather and its implications.
Global warming is a reality that should not only be incorporated in policy structure, but resources should be put behind it. It is not only human beings that are affected but animals too, which shows that a lot more needs to be done to show preparedness.
The co-operative governance and traditional affairs department has issued a warning to Midlands residents that there would be possible floods after the snow.
The ability and tendency of leaders to keep quiet during such incidents is disturbing and indicates a lack of will to lead and comfort the masses
MEC Thulasizwe Buthelezi reassured residents that the disaster response teams and other relevant officials would remain on alert after they responded to the weekend’s emergency.
“The teams worked tirelessly throughout the weekend under challenging conditions to reach stranded motorists and provide relief, preventing what could have been a mass casualty event.”
“The department alerts communities downstream of the Tugela River catchment areas to potential flooding due to snowmelt in the highlands. With schools closed parents are advised to ensure children do not play near unguarded large bodies of water, especially rivers and dams.”
Following the snow, floods are imminent and warnings have been issued to that effect. There are trickling effects that require proactive response and measures. If the province is seen as unable to respond to the floods, that paints a bleak picture.
It is commendable that local farmers came out and formed an important part of the rescue mission, but where was transport minister Barbara Creecy? Even a departmental statement would have sufficed as it would have provided reassurance and indication of the department's efforts. The ability and tendency of leaders to keep quiet during such incidents is disturbing and indicates a lack of will to lead and comfort the masses.
We should be better prepared next time. What happened was unfortunate, but it must be taken in context and we should do better next time.
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