South Africa: Wildfire warnings in multiple regions September 7

Event

Authorities issued a "severe" weather warning for parts of the Northern Cape, Free State, and Eastern Cape regions on Thursday, September 7. Below average seasonal rainfall has resulted in dangerous fire conditions in the eastern parts of Northern Cape, the southwestern parts of the Free State, and the northwestern parts of the Eastern Cape. A detailed map of the affected areas can be found here​.

Context

The country remains on alert after widespread wildfires caused by lighting and spread by high winds from winter storms led to over 10,000 people being evacuated from parts of the Western Cape region in June. The storms also led to flooding and subsequent transportation delays. At least nine people were killed in the fires and hundreds of homes were damaged.

A "severe" weather warning indicates an extreme meteorological event or phenomenon that represents a threat to human life and property.

Advice

Individuals present in the Northern Cape, Free State, and Eastern Cape regions are advised to keep abreast of weather forecasts, adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities (e.g. potential evacuation orders), and allow for additional travel time.