FIRE UPDATE: White River and Hazyview fires contained
The Lowveld and Escarpment Fire Protection Association (Lefpa) said all eight fires that had been raging in some parts of White River, Sabie and Hazyview have been contained yesterday, August 28.
André Scheepers, Lefpa’s on-site manager, said today’s weather was favourable for containing all the fires.
“Lefpa would like to thank everyone who was involved in extinguishing the fires for their help and assistance. Note that the current weather will give some slight relief. However, the fire season is not over yet, since we are still expecting hot and dry weather between the end of September and October,” he said.
ALSO READ: Fires rage around White River and Hazyview
These fires started on Wednesday afternoon, August 28, on the Numbi Road and in Kiepersol, Sabie and Hazyview. Lefpa divided its teams to be able to assist all these communities, while some of the landowners and commercial forestry units were also on the ground, helping the firefighting efforts.
@lowvelder Fires rage around White River and Hazyview. #Fire #Firealert #wildfire #hazyview #nelspruit #Whiteriver #Sabie
Some properties in White River were reportedly destroyed by the fires.
The cause of all these fires is as yet unknown; however, strong winds and the recent hot conditions in the Lowveld are thought to be the main catalysts.
Scheepers appealed to the public not to leave active open fires unattended. Fires and emergencies may be reported on 0860 663 473. He also said Lefpa would continue to monitor the situation.
