Heavy Rains Trigger Road Closures, Flooding and New Pothole Hazards Across North West Province

Karen Scheepers
Nov 17
3 min read

Widespread rainfall across the North West Province over the past week has led to significant road disruptions, localised flooding, and safety concerns for motorists in Potchefstroom, Klerksdorp, and surrounding areas. Multiple roads were submerged, trees fell during storm activity, and large potholes emerged following continuous downpours. Authorities have urged the public to drive cautiously as infrastructure teams assess damage and respond where possible.

Major Roads Flooded After Heavy Weekend Rainfall

Heavy rainfall on 16 November resulted in several provincial routes becoming waterlogged, creating hazardous driving conditions across the region.

The following major roads were reported as affected:

R24 between Rustenburg and Magaliesburg
N12 between Klerksdorp and Stilfontein
N18 outside Mahikeng towards Vryburg near Uplands

Although no major incidents were reported, motorists were strongly advised to exercise caution on:

R30 between Klerksdorp and Ventersdorp
The stretch between Derby and Ventersdorp

Several roads known for flooding in the past were also flagged as potential risk zones, including the R503 Hartbeesfontein, N4 near Dinokana, N14 between Sannieshof and Delareyville, and R52 between Koster and Lichtenburg, as well as the section between Koster and Rustenburg.

Traffic officers from the North West Department of Community Safety and Transport Management were deployed to assist motorists. On severely affected routes such as the N18 outside Mahikeng, a stop-and-go system was implemented to maintain safe traffic flow.

Klerksdorp: Homan Street Bridge Closed After Flooding

On 16 November, the Homan Street bridge at Oudorp/Neserhof in Klerksdorp became submerged under rising water from persistent rain.

The Matlosana Traffic Department closed the bridge to prevent motorists from attempting to cross the flooded roadway. Drivers were advised to make use of alternative routes until water levels receded and the structure could be inspected.

Tree Collapse in Steve Biko Street (Potchefstroom)

A fallen tree blocked Steve Biko Street in the Bult area on 16 November following strong winds and storm activity in Potchefstroom.

The JB Marks Fire Department responded rapidly, cutting and moving the large tree to the side of the road. The municipality has been requested to remove the remaining debris to fully clear the route.

Severe Storm Warning Issued for North West Province

On 14 November, weather authorities issued a warning regarding possible severe storms over the western parts of the province. The risk included:

Strong damaging winds
Hail
Heavy downpours

These storm cells were observed moving south-westwards, contributing to water accumulation, falling trees, and damage to road surfaces in several towns.

New Potholes Across Potchefstroom and Klerksdorp After Rain

Following the beneficial rainfall on 17 November, residents and ward councillors reported a sharp increase in pothole formation across neighbourhoods and key routes.

A ward councillor issued a public advisory urging motorists to drive with caution, noting that many potholes are not clearly visible due to standing water. He confirmed that several potholes have already been reported to the municipality, including those:

At newly paved intersections
In Molen Street
In various residential roads across JB Marks Municipality

Additional reports highlight severe pothole clusters at the T-junction of MC Roode and the R501, where residents described the damage as “craters.” An urgent request for repairs has been submitted to JB Marks Municipality.

Overall Update

The recent rainfall has brought both relief and disruption to the North West Province, with multiple roads affected by flooding, fallen trees, and emerging potholes. Authorities continue to monitor conditions while municipal teams respond to infrastructure damage. Residents and travellers are advised to remain vigilant, avoid flooded roads, and report dangerous conditions promptly as the region prepares for another week of unstable weather.

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