The 2024 winter fire season has reached critical levels, with wildland fires this year exceeding those of 2017, prompting calls for immediate action.

As of October 17, the Working on Fire-Kishugu Joint Venture (WoF-KJV) has responded to 2 277 wildland fires, surpassing the 2 270 recorded in 2017, marking this the worst wildfire year in eight years.

A record-breaking year

The dramatic increase in wildland fires underscores a worrying trend exacerbated by climate change.

Analysis indicates that the frequency and severity of fires have surged, with 2024 now setting a new benchmark for wildfires in South Africa.

This year alone has seen unprecedented conditions that have intensified the challenges faced by firefighting efforts across the country.

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Mpumalanga at the forefront

Mpumalanga continues to experience the highest fire activity, recording 467 incidents as of mid-October—significantly up from 368 fires last year.

The province is on high alert, and resources, both ground and aerial, are prepared to respond to the escalating crisis during what is proving to be one of the worst winter fire seasons on record.

Understanding the crisis

Several factors contribute to the alarming rise in wildfires:

Climate change remains a major driver, with rising temperatures and prolonged drought conditions creating optimal environments for wildfires.

Human activities, including urban expansion, outdoor activities in fire-prone areas, and unsafe practices like unattended campfires, are also contributing to the increase in fire incidents.

Preparedness and response efforts

In response to this escalating crisis, the WoF-KJV is intensifying its efforts in collaboration with various partners and stakeholders to manage and contain wildfires.

The organisation boasts a dedicated team of over 5 300 firefighters, along with 48 pilots and 18 aircraft support vehicles, all ready to protect vulnerable communities.

Training remains a priority, with the Kishugu Training Academy providing essential refresher courses to ensure that firefighters are well-equipped to handle the increasing challenges posed by wildfires.

In light of the tragic death of seven volunteer firefighters in KwaZulu-Natal earlier this year, the organisation is advocating for enhanced training and safety measures for community volunteers.

Public vigilance is key

Public awareness is crucial in wildfire prevention.

Authorities are urging residents, especially in fire-prone areas, to remain vigilant.

Simple actions, such as avoiding open flames in high-risk zones, adhering to local fire bans, and reporting signs of smoke, can significantly mitigate the number of wildfires and their devastating impacts.

A call for collective action

During a media briefing on October 15, Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment, Barbara Swarts, emphasised the collective responsibility of all South Africans to protect communities and the environment from wildfires.

She called for vigilance and proactive measures to prevent wildfires, highlighting the importance of collaboration between government agencies, fire management organisations, and local communities.

“As the influence of climate change continues to challenge fire seasons, enhancing preparedness, public awareness, and collaborative action will be essential in reducing risks and safeguarding communities,” Amanda Mthembu of Working on Fire-Kishugu Joint Venture Communications, said.