Phalaborwa Municipality declare a state of disaster following devastating fire

The Ba-Phalaborwa Local Municipality in Limpopo has declared a local state of disaster after a fire engulfed over 12 houses in Phalaborwa town on Saturday.

A preliminary report shows the fire to have started near a local SANDF Camp and spread through vegetation and thatched roofs thereafter. Windy conditions and dry vegetation made it difficult for firefighters to contend with the blaze. But eventually extinguished it this morning.

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The displaced victims are currently being accommodated in the nearby Cajori Hotel and other surrounding lodges. Food packages are being provided while further assessments take place.

FIRE DESTROYS HOUSES IN PHALABORWA OVER THE WEEKEND

The displaced victims were being accommodated in the nearby Cajori Hotel and other surrounding lodges. Food packages are also being provided while further assessments take place. No lives were lost in the incidents, and investigations into what started the fires are underway. The municipality took the decision following an urgent special council meeting held on Sunday.

Meanwhile, two fires in the Capricorn and Vhembe Districts were also reported on Sunday. Emergency personnel had to respond to them.

MEC for Coghsta Basikopo Makamu has sent out his gratitude to the public who worked through the night to contain the blaze.