SAWS warns of veld fire conditions across Limpopo

LIMPOPO – A  Level 10 severe weather warning  has been issued for parts of the province by the South African Weather Service (SAWS).

The services warns of veld fire conditions in the northern and eastern regions from 11:00 today until this evening at around 18:00. “Conditions are such that the Fire Danger Index (FDI) is above 75. Under these conditions fires may develop and spread rapidly resulting in damage to property and possible loss of human and/or animal life.”

Parts currently affected include Musina, Thohyandou, Giyani, Tznaneen, Phalaborwa and Hoedspruit municipal areas respectively with temperatures in the province that are expected to remain in the 30s for most parts with little to no rain expected. 

Dry conditions and a change in climate can result in wildfires in both rural and urban areas and residents are advised to not make fires in the open and/or leave fires unattended. Don’t throw cigarette butts out of cars or in the open veld. Don’t throw bottles in the veld as they can magnify the sun’s rays and start fires. 

Uncontrolled fires can not only have an affect on the land owner but also on motorists, especially when the fire occurs next to busy main roads and the heavy smoke causes poor visibility. 

Motorists caught in thick smoke of veld fires are at risk of being involved in an incident due to limited visibility and drivers need to be prepared and learn how to react if caught in the fire.

Arrive Alive provided these safety tips to motorists driving in thick smoke:

• Listen to traffic broadcasts and avoid areas which are affected by the fire as much as possible.
• If you are caught in a fire or thick smoke reduce your speed as visibility will be severely reduced.

“If visibility becomes very poor, don’t attempt to drive through the thick smoke or flames – many accidents occur when drivers attempt this, only to run off the road, collide with stationary obstacles such as other vehicles, or are involved in head-on collisions with other vehicles attempting to drive through from the opposite direction.”

• Put your headlights and hazards on so that you are as visible as possible to other vehicles.

“Give emergency vehicles priority on the roads and listen to their instructions. They have the most experience and will get you safely out of a veld fire.”

• If you need to stop, look for a clear area, preferably off the road with little to no vegetation. Turn your ignition off, but keep your headlights and hazards on.
• Do not leave the vehicle. Your vehicle will provide the most protection against the heat and smoke inhalation.
• Stay low and close all windows and vents.
• Once the fire has passed, exit the vehicle and move to an area which is already burnt.