31 Dec 2020 | 10:42 AM UTC
South Africa: Wildfire warnings issued for parts of the Northern Cape and Western Cape Provinces, Dec. 31
Authorities issue red wildfire warnings for parts of the Northern Cape and Western Cape provinces, South Africa, Dec. 31
Event
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a level 10 red warning (the highest level) for wildfire conditions in western parts of the Northern Cape Province Dec. 31-Jan. 1. In the Western Cape Province, additional level 10 red warnings have been issued for the Bergrivier Local Municipality Dec. 31-Jan. 1 and Stellenbosch Jan. 1. The SAWS indicates that the likelihood of fires is high and the potential impact severe. Fires could spread rapidly and cause damage to property and loss of life.
Level 1 damaging wind warnings are in place for the Drakenstein Municipality, Stellenbosch, and the Theewaterskloof Municipality Dec. 31-Jan. 2. SAWS has warned that there is a threat of localized runaway fires and that high-sided vehicles could be blown over. It has also noted that adverse conditions could lead to the temporary closures of the N2 (near Sir Lowry's Pass) and N1 (Huguenot Tunnel).
Authorities could update or amend the advisories in the coming days. Any fires that occur could lead to ground travel disruptions and power outages 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 in the region.
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.
