Veld fire risk rises in northern KwaZulu-Natal: Disaster teams on high alert
Dry, warm, and windy conditions, with gusts exceeding 40 km/h and low humidity could lead to the rapid ignition and spread of fires, the South African Weather Service has warned.
Image: Williem Law
Disaster management teams in KwaZulu-Natal have been placed on high alert following a warning from the South African Weather Service (SAWS) indicating a high risk of veld fires in parts of the province.
The warning, issued on Monday, forecasts “an extremely high Fire Danger Index (FDI) value exceeding 75.”
The risk period extends from 11am on Monday until 6pm on Tuesday, August 5. According to SAWS, dry, warm, and windy conditions, with gusts exceeding 40 km/h and low humidity could lead to the rapid ignition and spread of fires.
In response, KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta), Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, said disaster response units across the province had been instructed to coordinate closely with municipalities.
“Last year’s veld fires caused millions of rand in damage to crops, infrastructure, and livestock, and tragically led to the 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 coordinate closely with local municipalities to ensure a swift response,” said Buthelezi.
He added, “The safety of our communities is paramount.”
The affected municipalities include Abaqulusi, Ulundi, Nongoma, and uPhongolo in the Zululand District; uMhlathuze, uMlalazi, Nkandla, and Mthonjaneni in the King Cetshwayo District; Big Five Hlabisa, Mtubatuba, Jozini, and Umhlabuyalingana in the Umkhanyakude District; and Maphumulo in the iLembe District.
Buthelezi has urged residents in these areas to exercise extreme caution. “Do not start fires in open areas or leave them unattended. Properly dispose of cigarette butts and glass bottles, which can ignite dry vegetation,” he said.
He also advised residents to prepare and maintain controlled fire breaks, report any fires immediately, and use sand to help control small fires in the absence of water.
The Provincial Disaster Management Centre is actively monitoring high-risk areas and remains in contact with local disaster units.
Residents have been encouraged to stay updated through official communication platforms and to report fire outbreaks to local disaster management centres.