Fires engulf south western parts of Free State

Free State Agriculture (FSA) confirms that farmers and the Fire protection Association structures fought fires throughout the night (12 July 2021) following a day of cold and winds of up to 70km/hr. Most of these fires were in the south western Free State, in the Xhariep district with the biggest having started near Edenburg and burnt till over the N1 near Tierpoort, says dr Jack Armour, Commercial manager of FSA.

According to Johann Breytenbach of the Mangaung Umbrella Fire Protection Association (MUFPA), “the main fire has covered and area exceeding 62km in length with a fire front of up to 50 km wide. Active fires are still burning from Edenburg till Tierpoort on the N1.” Breytenbach reports livestock and game losses and structures that became engulfed in the fire, however they are still not sure of the extent of the damage. He expects fires to be contained later on in the day as winds die down and more resources come in.

Armour says a anyone wishing to assist the affected farmers, can do so by visiting FSA’s website https://vrystaatlandbou.co.za/fire-disaster-fund/

Alternatively, financial contributions can be made to  Vrystaat Landbou, ABSA, Account nr: 470940670, Branch: 632005 with reference “FIRES” + cell number.