South Africans unite to save thousands in snowstorm

When disaster strikes, South Africans don't hesitate – we stick together, we are there and we help each other, even in the most bizarre circumstances. This weekend, a rare snowstorm trapped thousands of people, including my parents, but the great 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 needed, they are there – every time. This is deeply rooted in our nation. Whether it's floods, fires or something as unexpected as a snowstorm, we stand together to help each other, no questions asked.

This weekend, South Africa was once again reminded of this wonderful unity.

A bizarre snowstorm has hit the country, blanketing roads and communities with heavy snow over the weekend. The snowfall was so heavy that it caused major disruption and left thousands of people stranded on the roads, particularly along the N3 highway that connects Johannesburg to Durban. Even with diversions, it was almost impossible to get around.

There had been warnings of possible snowfall and cold weather for days, but no one expected such severe consequences – especially in spring! The snowstorm that passed through this weekend is considered by some to be the worst since 1912.

I was in London on business when I woke up to the alarming news – my parents were among the thousands stranded near the Van Reenen Pass. They had been stuck for 12 hours, completely snowed in, with snow almost a metre deep. Their car couldn't move, a blizzard was raging outside and my father, of all people, was walking around in flip-flops, with no warm clothes, no socks and no fresh water or food. They were freezing and the situation was getting worse by the hour.

That day was one of the most stressful I've ever experienced, for my whole family and for everyone else in that situation. It was traumatic and I can only imagine how those who had no way out felt.

But as Mr. Rogers said, “In times of tragedy, you have to look for helpers. They will always be there.”

This weekend was no different.

The whole country mobilised. Emergency teams, NGOs, farmers and ordinary citizens worked tirelessly to help the thousands stranded. Social media was flooded with stories of truckers sharing food with others stranded on the road, farmers battling through the snow to offer food and warm clothing, and NGOs such as Gift of the Givers and the Muslim Welfare Society following the bulldozers as they cleared the roads, handing out food to anyone they could find. Even communities such as Love Howick joined forces to distribute blankets, hot meals, tea/coffee, toilet paper and much more, which was distributed by motorbikes along the N3 to stranded trucks and vehicles. It was simply incredible.

Kindness spread like wildfire. Messages of love and support poured in for everyone stuck in the snow. I sent my parents as many messages as I could to encourage them. And honestly, it worked.

Although the situation remained grim, 25 hours later they were still stuck. The snow was still too deep to move their car and it was getting dark again. It was dark, cold and absolutely terrifying for those still stuck on the road.

But after 29 long hours, the rescue teams finally reached them. My parents and many others were finally able to set off. Slowly but surely, they made their way home. There are no words to describe the relief. They were safe. The journey was slow, but they knew they would finally make it.

Unfortunately, not everyone was so lucky. It was reported that one person tragically died in the storm. I would like to express my deepest condolences to the family. There are no words that can make this easier, but please know that the country is with you in your grief.

After 36 hours, my parents finally came home. They were tired, traumatized, but unharmed. And all they can talk about is how incredible South Africans have been through this ordeal. They were not left alone – someone brought them a warm curry, someone else gave them water. And they found comfort in the loving messages on social media. I sent them every kindness I could find and it absolutely lifted their spirits.

Thank you to everyone who came this weekend. You reminded us once again that we come together in a very special way when we are called. Our hearts beat as one, and in times of tragedy we don't need to look for helpers – because we are the helpers.

This is the South Africa that I am so proud to call home.

Sources: Brent Lindeque | Good Things Guy

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