Veld fire warning issued for parts of Western Cape

GARDEN ROUTE | KAROO NEWS - The South African Weather Service has issued a veld fire warning for parts of the Western Cape, with a Fire Danger Index (FDI) exceeding 75.

The warning is valid from 09:00 on Saturday, 25 April, until 18:59 on Sunday, 26 April.

Areas expected to be affected include Beaufort West, Laingsburg, Oudtshoorn, and Prince Albert, with conditions particularly severe over the Central Karoo on both days and the Little Karoo on Saturday.

According to the weather service, hot to very hot temperatures combined with dry and windy conditions are expected to significantly increase the risk of runaway veld and bush fires.

Under these conditions, fires may ignite easily and spread rapidly, posing a serious threat to property, infrastructure, and potentially human and animal life.

Authorities have advised that all personnel and equipment be removed from high-risk areas where possible. Firefighting teams, labour, and equipment are to remain on full standby.

At the first sign of smoke, immediate action should be taken to contain any fire outbreak, and all available aerial support should be deployed without delay.

Residents in affected areas are urged to exercise extreme caution, avoid open flames, and report any signs of fire to local emergency services immediately.