A multi-vehicle pile-up has brought the N3 northbound near Hilton to a standstill.
Kwanele Ncalane, spokesperson for the KZN Department of Transport, said the preliminary investigations suggest that at least five people have lost their lives and scores sustained injuries during this horrific crash.
Ncalane said this accident involved five trucks, eight minibus taxis and twenty-two light motor vehicles.
The department is cautioning motorists to use alternative routes such as R103 or delay their travel arrangements until the road is cleared.
Ncalane said there was currently thick mist and slight rainfall in the area. He said this has forced authorities to close the southbound between Hilton and Cedara, Johannesburg bound.