Fire warning for Zululand region

Extremely high fire danger conditions are expected over the Zululand region today (Monday) and will persist until tomorrow (Tuesday).

This is according to a warning issued by the South African Weather Service (SAWS).

These areas will be affected: Hluhluwe, Jozini, uMlalazi, Nkandla, Nongoma, Hlabisa, Mthonjaneni, uMhlathuze, Ulundi, Pongola, uMhlabuyalingana and Mthonjaneni.

“Dry, warm and windy conditions with gusts of greater than 40km/h are expected over the north-eastern parts of KZN.

“FDI [Fire Danger Index] is above 75 over these parts of KZN, which is favourable for development and rapid spread of fires,” SAWS stated.

SAWS advice to guard against fires

* Residents are warned not to make fires in open areas 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.

Disaster teams on alert

Cogta MEC Thulasizwe Buthelezi has placed disaster management teams on high alert and urged residents to exercise extreme caution.

“Last year’s veld fires caused millions of rands in damage to crops, infrastructure and livestock, and tragically led to loss of life.

“We are deeply concerned about the elevated fire risk and have instructed all disaster management teams to remain on high alert and to co-ordinate closely with local municipalities to ensure a swift response. The safety of our communities is paramount,” said Buthelezi.

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