The strong winds today (Monday) fuelled the fires and unverified reports state that one house in Magoebaskloof caught fire and that more homes may be threatened. The causes of the fires are not known at the moment. Mopani District Municipality spokesperson Odas Ngobeni said that there are currently three fire spots the firefighters are trying to control.
“The wind is blowing towards Tzaneen town from George’s Valley, and residents and motorists are warned to drive cautiously in case the fire spreads,” he said. So far no injuries or loss of life have been reported. This is a developing story and Herald will give updates as information becomes available.
Agri Letaba is assisting by coordinating care packages for the firefighters and volunteers busy fighting several fires around Tzaneen. Water, Rehydrate sachets, eye drops, fruit, and energy bars are needed and can be dropped off at 12 Essenhout Street in Tzaneen, The Eatery in Haenertsburg, Tzaneen Fire Station, or Agri Letaba at the Tzaneen Showgrounds on the R71 via Phalaborwa.
Also read: Working on Fire asks residents to be careful
Urgent assistance is needed to help bring the fires under control and people who have bakkie-sakkies are urged to contact the LFPA to assist. “We appeal to the community of Tzaneen to assist the firefighters and volunteers busy fighting various fires around Tzaneen,” Agri Letaba posted on Facebook today. Meanwhile, local churches and The King’s Court Christian School have called on the community to pray for the safety of those fighting the fire.
“Everyone please pray! There is a massive fire that’s been burning since Sunday in Magoebaskloof and a smaller one started a few hours ago on Georges Valley. The wind has not been blowing in the right direction, and some farms and homes have already burnt down. Please pray for the wind to turn against the fire and for safety for everyone,” King’s Court Christian School posted on Facebook.
