Fires rage around White River and Hazyview
The cause of these fires is as yet unknown, but it is suspected that the recent hot weather conditions might be the main issue. However, firefighters are on the ground in an effort to contain the blazes.
The Lowveld and Escarpment Fire Protection Association (Lefpa) cautions the communities in some parts of White River, Sabie and Hazyview against the current runaway veld fires in these areas. These fires started earlier this afternoon, August 28.
So far, some properties in White River have been reportedly destroyed by the fire.
André Scheepers, Lefpa’s manager, said they are battling with multiple blazes on the Numbi Road, and in Kiepersol, Sabie and Hazyview. They have divided their team to be able to assist all the communities, while some of the landowners and commercial farmers are also on the ground, helping the firefighting efforts.
We are calling on landowners and farmers to remain vigilant at this time, especially those who have vegetation near their houses
“For now, we don’t know what caused the fires, but we suspect that the strong winds and hot conditions in the Lowveld might be the main cause. We are calling on landowners and farmers to remain vigilant at this time, especially those who have vegetation near their houses,” he said.
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Scheepers appealed to the public not to leave heaters and active braai areas unattended. Fires and emergencies may be reported on 0860 663 473. He also said Lefpa will monitor the situation until all the fires have been contained.
This is a developing story. Lowvelder will update its readers once more information becomes available.
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