The scenic Franschhoek Pass has been closed due to significant storm damage, as the Western Cape surveys the devastation wrought by heavy rains and widespread flooding.
The provincial government issued a notice saying that a full and indefinite closure was necessary because of rockfalls and infrastructure damage.
This affects all traffic, from light and heavy motor vehicles to motorcycles, bicycles and pedestrians.
The closure was announced as the hugely popular Franschhoek Literary Festival kicked off on Friday.
Motorists are advised to use alternative routes.
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Residents seeking access to La Rochelle and Karmel are permitted to do so exclusively through Villiersdorp, with officials emphasising that no exceptions will be made until thorough repair assessments are completed.
Authorities have set up roadblocks at two key locations: the end of Franschhoek town closest to the mountain side, and the T-Junction at the Theewaterskloof dam.
Road closures are still in force in a number of districts including the Overberg, West Coast, Winelands, Central Karoo and Garden Route.
See the latest update from the Western Cape Government below:
Paula Luckhoff
www.ewn.co.za