Another person has tragically succumbed to hypothermia on the N3 between Estcourt and Harrismith on Sunday
The N3 Toll Concession (N3TC) has reopened several routes between the Van Reenen's and Oliviershoek Pass
The Gift of the Givers humanitarian organization has stepped back as no further assistance is needed
Dr. Imtiaz Sooliman, founder of Gift of the Givers, confirmed to Briefly News that the death toll has risen to two

Another victim has fallen to hypothermia as rescue and recovery efforts continue on the N3. Image: Gift of the Givers Source: Original

ESTCOURT — It's heart-wrenching news as a second individual has lost their life to hypothermia after being caught in the snowstorm on the N3 between Estcourt and Harrismith on Sunday. The harsh weather conditions have tested the limits of rescue teams and travelers alike.

As authorities continue their efforts to reopen routes and ensure safety, the Gift of the Givers has wrapped up its humanitarian efforts, noting that further assistance is no longer required. But the tragedy lingers, and the road to recovery is still long for those affected.

Second Victim Falls to the Snowstorm

The N3 Toll Concession (N3TC) had to close the critical route between the Van Reenen's and Oliviershoek Pass on the R74. This decision was made in response to the treacherous conditions that were putting countless lives at risk. Officials warned drivers of dangerously low visibility caused by the snowfall, and rescue operations were conducted under some of the most challenging circumstances imaginable.

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In a public statement, the N3TC pleaded with travelers, "Please avoid travel between Tugela Plaza and Harrismith until further notice." As of Sunday evening, the weather conditions along the N3 toll route from Cedara Interchange 96 to Heidelberg Interchange 59 remained overcast, prompting authorities to remind motorists to drive cautiously and prioritize safety above all else.

Briefly News reached out to the KZN police and the Gift of the Givers for more details on the deceased individual. Dr. Imtiaz Sooliman, the compassionate founder of Gift of the Givers, confirmed the tragic news of the second death. Unfortunately, Colonel Robert Netshiunda, spokesperson for provincial police, did not respond to inquiries.

Public Reaction to the Tragedy

The tragedy has sparked a wave of emotions across social media platforms. While roads are gradually reopening and traffic is resuming, the loss of life has left many South Africans deeply saddened.

Briefly News took a closer look at some of the reactions from the public:

@_LeratoMabuzaM shared her thoughts:

"This is the first time South Africa has experienced such heavy snowfall. We need to check the weather before traveling. There were warnings issued. My condolences go out to the families who have lost loved ones."

@Ndlombango voiced his frustration:

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"It's disheartening to see the president gallivanting in Europe while people are perishing back home in South Africa."

@SpotDw expressed heartfelt condolences:

"This is an incredibly sad and unfortunate situation. May the souls of those who have passed find peace."

@SansCue made a lighthearted yet poignant observation:

"Even the celebrity doctor thought this was the perfect moment to crack a skiing joke."

@masentle_mo shared her personal story:

"I was in Durban last week and had planned to return on Saturday. But when I heard about the weather, I cut my trip short and returned on Wednesday. I'm so grateful that I listened to my instincts. Thank you, God."

Woman Succumbs to Hypothermia Amidst the Storm

In related developments, Briefly News reported the heartbreaking story of a 39-year-old woman who lost her life to hypothermia after enduring extreme cold temperatures on Saturday. The woman was traveling in a taxi from Johannesburg to Durban when the vehicle got stuck in traffic on the N3 highway on Friday. Unfortunately, she passed away while being transported to the hospital.

As the community grapples with these losses, the focus remains on ensuring safety for all travelers and providing support to those affected by this unprecedented weather event. It's a stark reminder of the power of nature and the importance of preparation and caution when facing such challenges.