KZN Urges Vigilance as High Fire Risk Threatens Northern Communities

Buthelezi emphasized the urgent need for precautionary measures to prevent further devastation and ensure community safety.

KwaZulu-Natal's Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC, Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has issued a stark warning to residents of the province's northern regions in light of heightened veld fire risks forecasted for 11 July 2024.

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has alerted to extreme fire danger conditions, predicting gusty winds exceeding 65 km/h accompanied by dry and hot weather, particularly affecting areas such as Abaqulusi, Alfred Duma (Indaka and Ladysmith), Big Five Hlabisa (Hlabisa), Dannhauser, eDumbe, eMadlangeni, Endumeni, Jozini, Msinga, Mthonjaneni, Newcastle, Nkandla, Nongoma, Nquthu, Okhahlamba, Ulundi, uMlalazi, and uPhongolo.

Buthelezi emphasized the urgent need for precautionary measures to prevent further devastation and ensure community safety. Residents are urged not to start fires in open areas, discard cigarette butts irresponsibly, or litter bottles that could amplify sun rays and ignite fires. Furthermore, maintaining controlled fire breaks and promptly reporting large fires are crucial steps in mitigating risks, especially in areas where water resources may be scarce, prompting the use of sand as an alternative fire control method.

Meanwhile, in response to recent veld fires that destroyed the Gazu family's five huts in uMlalazi and eShowe, KwaZulu-Natal's Human Settlements MEC, Siboniso Duma, has expedited assistance efforts. The department has provided a Temporary Residential Unit (TRU) and laid a concrete foundation to support the family during this tragic period.

"Our immediate priority is to ensure the Gazu family receives dignified support for mourning and funeral arrangements," said Duma, expressing condolences to the family and wishing a swift recovery to Japhet Gazu, who remains hospitalized.

Buthelezi is set to visit affected areas in uMlalazi and Nkandla Local Municipalities today, underscoring the government's commitment to assessing damages and providing necessary aid to affected communities.