Latest Update On The Fires In KNP (19 September 2014)

FIRES UNDER CONTROL IN THE KNP

Following the raging fires in the Kruger National Park (KNP) that lasted for over a week, South African National Parks (SANParks) can confirm that all four fires are contained.

According to SANParks Acting Head of Communications, Reynold Thakhuli, the weather condition has improved with a slight southerly wind blowing at the moment and it is expected to cool down as the day progresses.

Thakhuli urged visitors to still exercise caution when approaching burnt areas, particularly between Phabeni and Skukuza as there is still heavy smoke in those areas and some fires are still burning but under control.

Visitors are also urged to report any fire sightings to the nearest camp or gate and refrain from starting more. At the moment there is no infrastructure damage but two young giraffes and possibly a rhino have been reported as injured due to the fires. “Area surveillance is currently underway to determine if there are other casualties,” said Thakhuli.

SANParks conservation staff members and the Working for Fire teams are currently managing all the fires and extinguishing potential new fires.

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Issued by:
South African National Parks Corporate Communications, Tel: 012 426 5170
Media enquiries:
William Mabasa – GM: Communications & Marketing, Kruger National Park. Tel: 013 735 4363; Cell: 082 807 3919; Email: william.mabasa@sanparks.org
or
Reynold Thakhuli – Acting Head of Communications, SANParks. Tel: 012 426 5170; Cell: 073 373 4999; Email: rey.thakhuli@sanparks.org