South Africa: Health concerns persist in Umhlanga area north of Durban following a fire at a chemical warehouse, as of July 21

Event

Clean-up operations at a United Phosphorus Limited (UPL) chemical warehouse in Umhlanga, north of Durban, are continuing as of July 21 and are likely to persist through July. The warehouse was damaged by looters and arsonists during a recent surge in civil unrest earlier in July. Local authorities have not provided a date when the fire is likely to be doused; however, UPL has indicated that they expect the fire to be doused by July 21. The company has warned local communities that exposure to chemicals may result in skin, eye, and respiratory irritation and that the impacted site should be avoided. Officials have closed beaches north of Durban until further notice.

Advice

Avoid travel near the impacted site until officials give the all-clear. Consider remaining indoors if smoke is present, especially if you suffer from a respiratory illness such as asthma, or conditions that increase the risk from smoke exposure. Eye irritation is possible; flush irritated eyes with copious amounts of clean water. If avoiding the area is not possible, protect the airway by covering both mouth and nose, as well as shielding the eyes. Cover all exposed skin to prevent chemical particles and droplets from settling and causing irritation.