Comrades Marathon: Weather, road closures and runner safety tips

The South African Weather Services says there will be no downpours or extreme heat expected on the day of the race dubbed 'The Ultimate Human Race'. 

Forecaster Ayanda Ntsele says the average temperatures along the route will be lower than 20 degrees Celsius.

"The coldest temperature will be at the beginning of the race with a minimum temperature of six degrees will be at 5:30 am. The highest temperature will be around Gillitts, which will be at 1:40 pm, and the temperature will be 22 degrees.

"At the finish line in Durban at 5:30 pm it will be 19 degrees. On the route, it is generally clear skies." 

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Last year two runners died after getting into distress. 

Netcare 911 spokesperson Shawn Herbs says, most importantly, runners need to stay hydrated. 

"Make sure you got your electrolytes on board with you and for those spectators that are watching, encourage the runners. Have energy bars and medical supplies such as Deep Heat, Voltaren and make sure they are hydrated."

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Almost 18 000 runners will take part in the 90km downhill race from City Hall in Pietermaritzburg at 5:30 pm and cross the finish line in Durban at 5:30 pm. 

Durban metro police spokesperson Boysie Zungu says all intersections along the route will be closed Saturday midnight until the race's final gunshot goes off.

"The affected roads will be the R103, M13, Josiah Gumede Rd, western freeway, David Webster Street, Bram Fischer Road, Masabalala Yengwa Avenue until King's Park Cricket Stadium."

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Motorists are advised to stay away from all intersections along the Comrades routes to avoid delays.