21 Jan 2022 | 05:04 AM UTC
South Africa: Wildfire threat to continue for western regions through April
Wildfire threat to continue for western South Africa through April. Transport, utility disruptions, evacuations possible.
Event
Wildfires could cause sporadic localized transport and business disruptions across western South Africa, including Northern Cape and Western Cape provinces, through at least April. Wildfires are a typical feature of the dry winter and hot summer months across western South Africa, particularly after long dry spells or during extremely high temperatures.
Transport and Utilities
Wildfires can lead to evacuations, road closures, and ground transport diversions. Disruptions to arterial roads are possible. The scarcity of alternative routes in some areas means that significant transport disruptions are possible at times. While authorities are experienced in minimizing the potential impact, roads in remote regions are likely to be disrupted for extended periods due to their relative inaccessibility. Authorities could close routes in the wildfire complex and evacuate communities due to fire activity and the needs of response operations. Disruptions to traffic flows could also occur during re-entry periods after authorities lift evacuation orders.
Low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall could contribute to traffic delays, congestion, and prompt short-notice flight disruptions if wildfires occur near airports. Trains can also experience occasional cancellation of services and long delays. Power outages are possible in places due to damaged infrastructure or intentional power cuts to prevent infrastructure damage or to help prevent the spread of the fires.
Health
Smoke from wildfires is a mixture of gases and fine particles from burning trees, plants, and possibly building materials. Such smoke can hurt the eyes, irritate the respiratory system, and worsen chronic heart and lung diseases. Smoke may also worsen symptoms for people with pre-existing respiratory conditions - such as respiratory allergies, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Advice
Heed all evacuation orders. Seek updated information on road conditions if driving in the affected area; road closures and detours will cause increased congestion and delays. Individuals not under evacuation warnings should consider remaining inside well-ventilated, air-conditioned spaces to reduce exposure to smoke. Collect essential items - including identification and any important legal and travel documents - in a "go-bag" that can be easily accessed. Charge battery-powered devices in case of prolonged power outages.
