RTSA Urges Heightened Road Vigilance as Fog and Cyclone-Driven Rains Approach

 

The Road Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA) has urged motorists and pedestrians to exercise heightened caution as changing weather conditions are expected to affect visibility and road safety in the coming days.

RTSA Head of Public Relations, Chilufya Mwelwa, warned that anticipated fog conditions are likely to impair visibility for both drivers and pedestrians, increasing the risk of road accidents.

Ms. Mwelwa advised motorists to reduce speed, switch on fog lights, and remain alert to their surroundings. She further cautioned that poor visibility significantly compromises reaction time and road awareness.

Pedestrians have also been encouraged to take extra precautions, particularly when crossing roads. Ms. Mwelwa emphasized the importance of remaining visible to motorists and avoiding unnecessary movement during periods of dense fog.

“Members of the public must be extremely cautious when crossing roads. If visibility is poor, motorists should refrain from driving until conditions improve. Moving in dense fog can endanger not only oneself but other road users as well,” she warned.

Rainfall Activity Expected to Intensify

Meanwhile, Acting Minister of Green Economy and Environment, Rodney Sikumba, has announced that rainfall activity is projected to persist over the next seven days, with distribution and intensity varying depending on the trajectory of Cyclone Gezani.

Mr. Sikumba explained that the cyclone’s westward movement is expected to sustain the inflow of warm and unstable moisture into the region, potentially triggering heavy rainfall episodes.

He cautioned that continued rainfall could result in damage to key infrastructure, including roads and bridges, particularly in vulnerable areas.

In response, the Acting Minister has called on relevant ministries and agencies to strengthen coordination efforts to ensure preparedness and effective response measures. He further urged stakeholders to rely on official weather updates and advisories issued by the Zambia Meteorological Department.

Mr. Sikumba assured the nation that his Ministry, through the Meteorological Department, will continue to closely monitor the cyclone’s trajectory and intensity and provide timely updates as the situation evolves.

He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to safeguarding lives, protecting livelihoods, and preserving national infrastructure during the adverse weather period.