Warning: veld fires continue in the eastern Free State

Free State Umbrella Fire Association general manager Thinus Steenkamp said the high fire alert had to remain in place because of strong winds.

He called on Landowners and farmers to remain vigilant and not leave their farms or homesteads during these times.

The Arlington fire was apparently started along the railway tracks, and was caused by sparks from the train wheels, said Steenkamp.

Veld fires continue between Harrismith and Warden and the Senekal region. The extent of the damage has not been assessed but it’s estimated that more than thousands of hectares have been burnt.