And the more computerized a nation is, the greater the chances of Y2K failures, even in the systems where remediation work has been done. Japan's two largest airlines canceled 26 flights to Europe on New Year's Eve because of low demand. The U.S. State Department even said South Africa is prepared for any refugee crisis that might arise due to Y2K problems in neighboring countries. Nevertheless, all business will close from Dec. 31 to Jan. 3. A public phone-in line with five operators will be functioning.
Health is the one sector that has lagged in readiness.
Leave has been canceled for all senior staff at state health care facilities through January. Officials also have been concerned about local authorities' preparedness. They say 58 of 810 municipalities were still less than 95 percent ready in late November. South African Airways will fly all normal routes. Its head, Coleman Andrews, plans to be airborne as a show of confidence when midnight strikes.