On October 27, 2026, motorists in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, are experiencing traffic congestion and flooding on several major routes. The N3 northbound is congested before the Ashburton interchange due to a stationary truck obstructing the left lane. Additionally, motorists are advised to expect delays from the Queen Nandi Drive interchange. The N2 southbound is also experiencing congestion after the Umgeni Road interchange.
Flooding has been reported in several areas across Durban, resulting from heavy rainfall. The N3 southbound has been affected, with the right lane closed after the New England Road interchange. Motorists are urged to exercise extreme caution and avoid flooded sections where possible. Several areas have been affected, including the lower end of Point Road, the Quarry Road/O'Flaherty Road intersection, and Riverside Road in Durban North.
Motorists are advised to take extra caution when driving in flooded areas. Potholes are hidden beneath water and can cause serious tyre damage. Waterlogged roads may conceal hazards and make driving dangerous. To ensure safety, drivers are encouraged to reduce speed, increase following distance, and switch on headlights. Furthermore, motorists are warned not to drive through flooded roads.
A crash scene on the N2 Northbound on Higginson Highway is still active, causing traffic congestion. Motorists are advised to approach the scene with caution and expect delays due to recovery efforts. Construction is also ongoing on several sections of the N3, including between Nottingham Road and Estcourt, Van Reenen and Harrismith, and Harrismith and Warden.
The N3 upgrade work between Pietermaritzburg and Durban continues, particularly around Key Ridge, Hammarsdale, Westville, and Paradise Valley. The Market Road to Ashburton section is open. Roadworks around the EB Cloete Interchange and Spaghetti Junction remain in progress. Motorists travelling on the N2 north and south should expect possible delays around the Durban, Umhlanga, and KwaMashu corridors.
Motorists are urged to keep a safe following distance, reduce speed around crash and construction scenes, and remain alert to changing road conditions. Additionally, drivers are advised of slippery, wet roads on the N2 and N3 and are encouraged to reduce speed and maintain a correct following distance. This is an early-morning update, and conditions may change as peak-hour traffic builds.
The Witness will provide updates throughout the day as new reports come in. Motorists are advised to stay informed about the latest traffic conditions, accidents, road closures, and alerts across Pietermaritzburg, the Midlands, and the rest of KwaZulu-Natal.
Key points
- Motorists face congestion and flooding on major routes in KwaZulu-Natal.
- Heavy rainfall has resulted in flooding in several areas across Durban.
- Ongoing construction and roadworks continue on sections of the N3.
