When disaster strikes, South Africans don’t hesitate – we rally, we show up, and we help each other through even the most bizarre of circumstances. This weekend, a rare snowstorm trapped thousands, including my parents, but the outpouring of unity and kindness proved once again that in times of need, our nation’s heart beats as one.
KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (22 September 2024) – When South Africans are called upon, they show up – every time. It’s something deeply woven into the fabric of our nation. Whether it’s floods, fires, or something as unexpected as a snowstorm, we stand together to help one another, no questions asked.
This weekend, South Africa was once again reminded of that beautiful unity.
A bizarre snowstorm hit the country, blanketing roads and communities in heavy snow over the weekend. The snowfall was so intense that it caused major disruptions, leaving thousands of people stranded on roads, especially along the N3 highway, which links Johannesburg to Durban. Even with detours, it was nearly impossible to move.
Warnings were given days before about possible snow and cold weather, but no one expected it to be as severe as it was – especially in spring! The snowstorm that rolled through this weekend is said by some to be the worst since 1912.
I was in London for work when I woke up to the alarming news – my parents were amongst the thousands trapped near Van Reenen’s Pass. They had already been stuck for 12 hours, completely snowed in, with the snow almost a meter deep. Their car couldn’t move, a blizzard raged outside, and my dad, of all things, was in flip-flops, with no warm clothes, no socks, and no fresh water or food. They were freezing, and the situation was becoming more dire by the hour.
The day was one of the most stressful I’ve ever experienced, for my entire family, and for anyone else in that situation. It was traumatic, and I can only imagine how it felt for the people who had no way out.
But as Mister Rogers said, “In times of tragedy, look for the helpers. They will always be there.”
This weekend was no different.
The country rallied. Emergency teams, NGOs, farmers, and regular citizens worked tirelessly to assist the thousands who were stranded. Social media was flooded with stories of truckers sharing food with others stuck on the road, farmers making their way through the snow to offer food and warm clothes, and NGOs like “Gift of the Givers” and the “Muslim Welfare Society” following the graders as they cleared the roads, handing out food to anyone they could find. Even communities like “Love Howick” banded together to distribute blankets, warm meals, tea/coffees, toilet paper, and so much more, which were distributed by motorbikes along the N3 to stranded trucks and vehicles. It was nothing short of amazing.
Kindness spread like wildfire. There were messages of love and support pouring in for everyone stuck in the snow. I sent my parents as many of these messages as I could to keep their spirits up. And honestly, it worked.
Even as the situation remained bleak – 25 hours later, they were still stuck. The snow was still too deep to move their car, and the night was falling again. It was dark, cold, and absolutely terrifying for those still stuck on the road.
But after 29 long hours, rescue teams finally reached them. My parents, along with many others, were finally able to move. Slowly but surely, they were heading home. There are no words to describe the relief. They were safe. The drive was slow, but they knew they were finally going to make it.
Sadly, not everyone was as lucky. It was reported that one person tragically lost their life in the storm. To their family, I send my deepest condolences. There are no words that can make this easier but know the country is with you in your grief.
After 36 hours, my parents finally made it home. They were tired, traumatised, but safe. And all they can talk about is how incredible South Africans were during this ordeal. They weren’t left alone – there was someone who brought them a warm curry, another person gave them water. And they found solace in the messages of love from social media. I was sending them every bit of kindness I could find, and it absolutely lifted their spirits.
To everyone who showed up this weekend, thank you. You reminded us once again that when we are called upon, we unite in a way that is truly special. Our heart beats as one, and in times of tragedy, we don’t need to look for the helpers – because we are the helpers.
That’s the South Africa I’m so proud to call home.
by 