03 Aug 2021 | 03:23 AM UTC
South Africa: Authorities issue wildfire warnings for portions of Eastern Cape, Northern Cape, and Western Cape provinces through at least Aug. 3 /update 1
Authorities issue wildfire warnings for parts of Eastern Cape, Northern Cape, and Western Cape provinces, South Africa, through Aug. 3.
Event
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued level 10 warnings (the highest level) for wildfire conditions for parts of the Eastern Cape, Northern Cape, and Western Cape provinces through at least Aug. 3. The affected area includes Dawid Kruiper, Kai !Garib, Kareeberg, Karoo Hoogland, !Kheis, Richtersveld, Ubuntu, and Umsobomvu municipalities of the Northern Cape Province and Beaufort West, Laingsburg, and Prince Albert municipalities of the Western Cape Province as well as the municipalities of Blue Crane Route, Dr. Beyers Naude, Inxuba Yethemba, and Raymond Mhlaba in the Eastern Cape Province. Authorities could expand or amend the warnings in the coming days.
Any fires could lead to ground travel disruptions, including along parts of national highways. Power outages are also possible in the impacted area. Authorities could close both primary or secondary routes during any fire response. Low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall could contribute to traffic delays and congestion.
Advice
Monitor local media for updates from the authorities. Seek updated information on road conditions if driving in the affected area. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of power outages.
Should fires occur, remain inside well-ventilated, air-conditioned spaces to reduce exposure to smoke. Individuals with chronic respiratory illnesses may be more susceptible to the negative effects of smoke inhalation. Eye irritation is possible; flush irritated eyes with copious amounts of clean water.
