Emergency response teams across Durban and the province of KwaZulu-Natal have been tirelessly responding to multiple fires in various areas.
Since Sunday, crews have been battling runaway fires that have devastated parts of the King Cetshwayo, uThukela, and uMzinyathi Districts.
The widespread veld fires have impacted the local municipalities of uMlalazi, eMthonjaneni, Okhahlamba, and uMvoti, causing damage to houses and vehicles.
Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) MEC Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has praised the teams for their diligent efforts.
The MEC has directed the Provincial Disaster Management Centre to co-ordinate additional support for the affected municipalities, that have seen destruction to livelihoods.
Disaster management teams are committed to ensuring that residents affected by the fires receive the necessary support to rebuild their lives.
“We are grateful to the brave firefighters in these municipalities who, through their swift response, ensured that no fatalities or injuries occurred during these incidents,”Mr Buthelezi said.
Assessments are on-going to determine the full extent of the damage caused by the fires.
The Provincial Disaster Management Centre will continue to monitor the inclement weather conditions expected across the province for the rest of this week. Residents are urged to check weather forecasts before embarking on any long journeys.
In Durban, a fire ripped through an industrial site in Queensburgh, with videos captured by witnesses near the scene showing roaring flames and smoke engulfing numerous buildings. Strong winds exacerbated the situation, swaying trees and other vegetation in the surrounding areas.
Fires were also reported in Chatsworth, Phoenix, and Pietermaritzburg.
