Fire danger warning issued for KZN

A high fire danger warning has been issued for parts of KZN today (Tuesday).

The warning by the South African Weather Service (SAWS) has prompted disaster management teams across the province, including in uMkhanyakude and Zululand districts, to be on high alert.

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This follows devastation over the past couple of months where fire destroyed homes, grazing land and claimed 14 lives in several areas.

“The warning indicates that the province will experience dry and hot conditions on Tuesday, which are conducive to the development and rapid spread of fires,” said KZN Cogta.

“Residents across the province are urged to be extra vigilant due to the heightened risk of wildfires under these conditions. Disaster management teams are strategically positioned in areas prone to runaway fires.”

The districts most at risk include Zululand, Harry Gwala, uThukela, Amajuba, uMkhanyakude, uMzinyathi and uMgungundlovu.

Preventative actions to reduce wildfire risk:

• Avoid making fires in open areas and never leave fires unattended
• Do not discard cigarette butts from vehicles or in open fields
• Refrain from leaving bottles in the veld, as they can magnify sunlight and ignite fires
• Prepare and maintain firebreaks in a controlled manner
• If a large fire occurs, report it immediately and move to a safe area to allow professionals to manage the situation
• In the event of water shortages, use sand to help control the fire