Meiringspoort, Swartberg Pass closed after flash floods

The Meiringspoort and the Swartberg Pass in the Western Cape are currently closed due to floods, rockfalls and unsafe road conditions. (Photo: Facebook)

The Meiringspoort and the Swartberg Pass in the Western Cape are currently closed due to floods, rockfalls and unsafe road conditions. Although several people were trapped overnight in Meiringspoort, authorities have confirmed that everyone has since been safely evacuated.

According to information, a helicopter was deployed early Saturday morning at Meiringspoort to evacuate four truck drivers, while the Garden Route EMS teams also had to remove a bakkie from the Grootrivier.

Alan Winde, Premier of the Western Cape, was himself on the scene at Meiringspoort on Saturday.

“The search and rescue teams succeeded in taking tourists to safety. There were a few truck drivers and motorists who were trapped overnight, but they have since been evacuated. Everyone is safe and the teams are now working from both ends to open this pass as soon as possible.”

Meiringspoort is blocked by debris after the floods, while the Swartberg Pass remains dangerous due to slippery mud.

Winde says that although it was earlier indicated that the Swartberg Pass was open, teams on the scene confirmed that it was still too dangerous for traffic.

“Motorists on their way to the KKNK are advised to use alternative routes. Travelers to Oudtshoorn can follow the N9 via George, Willowmore and Aberdeen, or consider the R62 via Laingsburg.”

He further emphasized that the roads will remain closed until further notice.