September 30, 2023 – 20:00
Richards Bay, South Africa – At approximately 13:10 today, the City of uMhlathuze Fire and Rescue received a distress call reporting a fire incident near FOSCOR and promptly initiated their response protocol.
Upon arriving at the scene, it was ascertained that the incident was situated at the NCT Stockpiles conveyor belt.
City of uMhlathuze Fire and Rescue remains actively engaged at the location, with valuable support from the Mondi Fire Brigade, Transnet Fire Services, South 32 Fire Brigade, and other collaborating entities.
The complexity of this fire incident is notable, as it involves a substantial stockpile, coupled with challenging weather conditions. The prevailing high temperatures and strong winds are contributing factors. It is essential to underline that, at this juncture, no hazardous chemicals are involved.
In addition to this situation, a separate fire has initiated in the vicinity of NCP in Arboretum via Cassandra. Our dedicated firefighters are earnestly working to address this blaze, even though the situation has escalated into a runaway fire, making containment increasingly challenging.
Mayor Xolani Ngwezi of the City of uMhlathuze urges residents in Arboretum, Via Cassandra, and those residing in proximity to the expanding fire area to exercise vigilance, remain alert, and stand ready while our dedicated firefighters exert their utmost efforts to combat this large and currently uncontrollable fire.
