A major veld fire broke out along Govan Mbeki Drive near the Prozesky Bird Sanctuary in Potchefstroom on Monday, August 3, with strong winds rapidly driving the flames across the area.

Emergency services, including the JB Marks Local Municipality Fire Department and traffic officials, responded to the scene to contain the blaze and ensure the safety of motorists. The strong winds made firefighting efforts more challenging as the fire spread through the dry vegetation.

Govan Mbeki Drive was temporarily closed while emergency crews worked to bring the fire under control. Motorists were urged to avoid the area and make use of alternative routes until it was safe to reopen the road.

The cause of the fire has not yet been confirmed, and no injuries had been reported at the time of publication.