NORTHERN CAPE – Kimberley, a city in the Northern Cape Province of South Africa, woke up to a thick blanket of smoke particulates on the morning of September 23, 2023. City residents suspect that the smoke may be a result of the ongoing veld fires in the Lime Acres and Daniëlskuil region, which have been burning since at least Thursday, September 21.
Data from the IQAir Quality Map confirms the concerns of the residents, with hundreds of pins indicating poor air quality and areas affected by fires, concentrated around Daniëlskuil and Lime Acres. In response to the escalating situation, the South African Weather Service has issued a Fire Warning specifically for Daniëlskuil.
The conditions for veld fires in the region have reached alarming levels, prompting the Fire Warning issued by the weather service. Under these dangerous conditions, fires are likely to develop and spread rapidly, posing a threat to property and potentially endangering human and animal lives. Fire teams are on standby to combat the blazes.
Local residents, such as Hester Pettit Loos and Marlyn Myburg, are rallying their communities to come together and support one another during this challenging time. Hester Pettit Loos has shared info for a fundraising campaign called “RED N DIER” to provide assistance to farmers who are suffering significant losses due to the fires. Contributions of animal feed or monetary donations are being sought, and interested individuals can contact them via phone or WhatsApp at 0793702478.
While it is yet to be confirmed whether the smoke enveloping Kimberley originated from fires in the surrounding areas or locally within Kimberley itself, reports of veld fires in certain parts of the city earlier in the week suggest that smouldering fires may have contributed to the current situation.
As the smoke continues to blanket Kimberley, residents are hopeful for the swift containment of the fires in Lime Acres and Daniëlskuil and the restoration of clean air in their city. The community’s solidarity and support are crucial in aiding those affected by the fires and minimizing the damage caused by this widespread natural disaster.
