THE strong wind that terrorised KZN from Saturday, 30 September has left yet another town on fire.
Firefighters had a hard time putting out the runaway fire, which started at one of the companies in Richards Bay which handles wood-related material.
They managed to stop the fire from spreading after hours of battling it, but the stockpile is still on fire. Firefighters are still on the scene maintaining the fire.
Working to put out the fire
The aerial operation is set to start on Monday, 2 October to try and suffocate the burning stockpile so as to kill the flame.
The City of uMhlathuze has warned motorists and residents in close proximity to the burning area to be vigilant as they are not yet out of danger.
City spokesman, Bongani Gina confirmed that the aerial operation will take place on Monday around 4am at the site where the fire started.
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"The aim of the operation is to suffocate burning stockpiles so as to kill the flames. This is done to shorten the period of burning, while at the same time ensuring that the fire doesn't spread to other industries," said Gina.
He added that the operation will involve bombing, aerial firefighting and a helicopter realising dry chemical products.
"It therefore bears noting that John Ross Highway will be closed from Foskor Robots to East Central Arterial," said Gina.
Residents warned to be vigilant
uMhlathuze mayor, Xolani Ngwezi said the City of uMhlathuze Fire Services rushed to the scene as soon as news of the fire broke out.
He said upon arrival, the fire appeared to have originated at a conveyor belt used for the storage of wooden chips.
"However, a comprehensive investigation will be conducted to determine the precise cause of the fire. At the time of arrival, the fire had already engulfed the wooden chip stockpiles. The weather conditions on that day posed significant challenges, with temperatures soaring to an estimated 39 degrees Celsius. The situation became increasingly complex as the wind speed intensified and shifted to a northerly direction, providing additional fuel to the fire," said Ngwezi.
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He added that at that time, the wooden chip sparks were carried over John Ross Highway, igniting green belts opposite the highway.
Ngwezi said evacuation measures were not deemed necessary and there is currently no imminent risk to residential areas.
"Gratitude is extended to the dedication and support demonstrated by everyone, including industries, the Community Policing Forum (CPF), and individuals who worked tirelessly under extreme conditions to control and contain the fire. We urge the community to remain at home, stay vigilant and report any signs of fire to the fire services," said Ngwezi.
