However, the damage to infrastructure extends far beyond just the main routes. (Photo: Nsovo Cherryl Hlangwani/Facebook)
The ongoing heavy rain over the western parts of the Eastern Cape is currently putting the provincial road network under enormous pressure. The inclement weather has already led to several critical road closures, flooding, rockfalls and rapidly deteriorating road conditions.
Unathi Binqose, spokesperson for the department of transport in the province, says the situation is being closely monitored. However, the impact on important economic routes and tourism areas is already great.
The R102 between Gqeberha and Jeffreys Bay had to be closed to all traffic, after large rockfalls occurred on the route. The road is an important alternative route for the N2 and connects Gqeberha, the Gamtoos Valley, Humansdorp and Jeffreys Bay.
However, the damage to infrastructure extends far beyond just the main routes. According to Binqose, the R332, which provides access to the popular Baviaanskloof nature reserve, also had to be closed due to flooding.
The continued rain also complicates the work of operational teams.
“Contractors have recently been working hard to restore access to this area after the severe weather that the province experienced about two weeks ago.
“Unfortunately, the latest flooding has significantly hampered this repair work, and we will have to start the work almost from the beginning as soon as the water subsides,” he says.
???? GAMTOOS VALLEY ROAD CLOSURES – KO UGA EC
Several roads closed due to rocks + flooding. Residents along Gamtoos River urged to evacuate. Heavy rain causing dangerous conditions. Avoid area + obey warnings.???? #Kouga #ECFloods #GamtoosRiver
#ECRoads pic.twitter.com/hdfQPCCvMR— SA NATIONAL TRAFFIC UPDATES (@lnnocent191535) June 4, 2026
In addition to the closure of provincial routes, there are several other areas that currently pose a great danger to motorists. On the M17 behind the power station there is a significant accumulation of water, which is exacerbated by deep and dangerous potholes.
The Old Grahamstown Road was also flooded near the local police station, while Addo Road under the railway bridge had to be completely closed to traffic due to high water levels.
The authorities fear that the situation could deteriorate rapidly as the rains continue and mountainous areas become increasingly unstable.
“The department continuously and carefully monitors mountain passes and other vulnerable parts of the road network. Because the ground is already saturated, there is serious concern about further rockfalls, mudslides and landslides that could further damage or block roads,” warns Binqose.
He is warning motorists to drive with extreme caution as conditions remain hazardous in many areas due to wet and slippery road surfaces and poor visibility.
“Motorists are requested to reduce speed, increase following distances and strictly comply with all road closures and instructions from traffic officials,” he says.
(Photo: Nsovo Cherryl Hlangwani/Facebook)