The Lowveld and Escarpment Fire Protection Association (Lefpa) has warned communities of runaway veld fires.
@lowvelder A Bell UH-1 helicopter drawing water from the Gladdespruit to extinguish the fires in the Kaapsehoop area. > Video: Tumelo Waga Dibakwane #kaapsehoop #firefighter #lefpa #mbombelatiktok
André Scheepers, manager of Lefpa, said they are battling with nine separate blazes in eManzana, Machadodorp, Lydenburg, Sabie, White River, Graskop, and Bushbuckridge, and its resources are stretched to the limit.
@lowvelder FIRE UPDATE: The Kaapsehoop fires have been contained after all resources were stretched to the limit to extinguish them. Patrols are planned during the night as weather conditions will be favourable for fires during the next few days. Lefpa urges all landowners to take care and act fast with all possible resources should a fire occur. LEFPA Report fires on 0860 66 3473. > Video:Santie van der Westhuizen #kaapsehoop #firefighter #mbombela
#TRACN4route #Update at 15:16. #Fire extinguished btw #eMakhazeni IC + Bergendal Monument (N4/5X km 33.0E)
— TRAC N4 Toll Route (@TRACN4route) July 8, 2024
ALSO READ: UPDATE: Fires still raging in Kaapsehoop area
The yellow fire danger index indicates an increased risk of runaway wildland fires.
#TRACN4route 08/07 at 14:32. Veld fire btw Sudwala IS+Shagen IS (N4/7X km 28.2E) #Mbombela EB slow lane closed.
— TRAC N4 Toll Route (@TRACN4route) July 8, 2024
“Strong winds and hot conditions in the Lowveld are the main causes of the fires and more than 1,000 ha have already been lost, including grazing, orchards, and commercial forestry. Aerial support is aiding the efforts to contain the fires,” said Scheepers.
@lowvelder In anticipation of the winter fire season, the Kruger National Park has begun implementing plans to manage and mitigate the risks of fire in the park. #krugernationalpark #fireseason2024 #winterseason #fire #kruger #firerisk #tourism #southafricatiktok🇿🇦 #winterseason
#TRACN4route #Update at 13:19. #Veldfire extinguished btw #eMakhazeni IC + Bergendal Monument (N4/5X km 33.0E)
— TRAC N4 Toll Route (@TRACN4route) July 8, 2024
ALSO READ: Fires in the Lowveld to rage into the night, says Lefpa
Scheepers has also appealed to the public not to leave active braai areas unattended.
ALSO READ: Veld fires wreak havoc in Mashishing and surrounds
Fires and emergencies can be reported on 0860 663 473.
