This comes after the South African Weather Services had issued a severe weather warning from Thursday 26 August 2021 until Sunday 29 August 2021. According to the Operational Manager of the Free State Umbrella Fire Protection Association (FSUFPA), Jan de Villiers, a high fire danger warning has been issued to for the western half of the Free State province, with high winds preceding the cold front that might cause run away fires on Thursday.

De Villiers said that cold conditions are expected during the course of the weekend. He said that high winds with disruptive snow is also expected in the eastern parts of the Free State.

“Fire Protection Associations have to monitor the situation at all times in each area, and no open fires are permitted on Orange and Red days, except in specially designed fireplaces. Hot work with machinery in open areas should be minimised and fire extinguishing equipment must be on site," said De Villiers.

He further stated all resources must be on standby and fires should be reported to local fire brigade services.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi