Cold weather fuels potential for fires
While fires are often ignited by natural occurrences like lightning, it is estimated that human negligence accounts for more than 90% of those in the Lowveld.
MBOMBELA – Although the fire season in the Lowveld is relatively quiet at the moment, the Lowveld & Escarpment Fire Protection Association (Lefpa) said it is on high alert.
“We had about 80 fires between May and August, which is more or less normal for this time of the year. But from now until the end of the season in October, this can double if people are not careful,” said André Scheepers, the manager of Lefpa, adding that as a result, firebreaks will no longer be allowed.
According to Scheepers, recent cold fronts brought frost to high-lying areas, causing dry vegetation, which, as a result of heavy recent rain, is now thick and potential fuel for fires.
While fires are often ignited by natural occurrences like lightning, it is estimated that human negligence accounts for more than 90% of those in the Lowveld.
“Therefore we have very strict prohibitions that are being enforced from June 1 to October 31,” said Scheepers.
“When the fuel is very dry, it is consumed much faster and creates a fire that is much more difficult to contain.”
A cold front, rain and fog made Lowvelders grab their winter coats over the past couple of days, with temperatures not reaching above 15 degrees.
ALSO READ: 26-year-old man still missing
Although a little warmer, the South African Weather Service predicts that temperatures will stay mostly in the mid 20s over the next week, with no extreme circumstances.
There is a possibility of light showers next week, which will cool things down again.
But Scheepers said he predicted a busy time ahead, and called upon farmers not to be caught off guard.
In the meantime, the Kruger National Park (KNP) made sure it was ready for the fire season.
Ike Phaahla, the spokesperson for the KNP, said the savanna biome depends on fires for the healthy functioning of the ecosystem.
“Research proved that the savanna plant species’ evolutionary development is dependent on fire. Normally 10% of the park’s vegetation burns down every year, but we expect 20% this year due to the good vegetation growth after the rain,” he said.
