An extreme weather warning has been issued by the Eastern Cape Fire Protections services and by NCC Wildfires from September 8 to 12, 2019. Hot berg winds and high temperatures are threatening to cause fires across the province.
Residents are urged to be cautious and aware of dry and hot weather condition in the Eastern and Western Cape, that could easily cause veldfires.
The Western Cape is experience strong winds paired with hot temperature that could easily spark veldfires in various areas.
A severe fire danger risk for large parts of the Overstrand has also been noted, with strong north westerly winds expected to increase fire hazards in Western Cape central interior on Sunday.
The NCC Wildfire team responded to a wildfire at the picnic area in Tokai Forest on Sunday, September 8. The team reported wind gusts that were flaring up a blaze. The fire has since been contained and mop up operations are underway.
Fire Chief Lester Smith is asking people to be mindful of the heightened fire risk:
– only braai in designated braai areas
– do not make any illegal fires
– discard cigarette butts safely
PLEASE smokers – do not throw your cigarette butts out the car window, use a portable cigarette butt holder available on the market or something as simple as an empty bottle or can laden with a bit of water to dispose of butts.
Locals have been cautioned to be aware of the weather condition, to remain vigilant and report any fires they come across.
NEW START: Tokai Forest below picnic area.@TableMountainNP @NCCWildfires Newlands crews on scene with @cptfrs. Perimeter contained and busy with mop up.
Weather conditions are very hot with gusting wind.#WeHaveGotYourBack#FireIsEveryonesFight
? Michael Scott – @NCCEnviron pic.twitter.com/7SPJ2pbhPD— NCC Wildfires (@NCCWildfires) September 8, 2019
WHO TO CALL
Any emergency or distress call relating to a FIRE OR FLOOD EMERGENCY, phone OVERSTRAND FIRE & RESCUE SERVICES on 028 312 2400
Please report issues with MUNICIPAL INFRASTRUCTURE such as water, electrical, roads, stormwater, refuse removal and cleaning issues to the Municipality’s 24 HOUR EMERGENCY CONTROL ROOM number on 028 313 8111
For general enquiries such as municipal accounts, progress with the approval of building plans etc, can contact the OVERSTRAND SWITCHBOARD number on 028 313 8000 – alternatively phone Kleinmond Administration 028 271 8400; Hermanus Administration 028 313 8000; Stanford Administration 028 341 8500; Gansbaai Administration 028 384 8300
Those who wish to lodge a day-to-day complaint regarding law enforcement are advised to call 028 313 8980 or to contact their nearest police station
Alternatively, send an email to [email protected]
Picture: Pixabay
