WEEKEND fires have caused extensive damage to plantations on the Western Shores of the Greater St Lucia Wetlands Park. A series of lightning strikes caused 10 different fires within the SiyaQuibeka Forests and Komatiland plantations this weekend. The fires were partially contained during fire-fighting activities, but flared up again due to a strong northerly wind, bringing the flames to the border of Khula Villages outside St Lucia. An estimated 500 to 800 hectares of the Wetland Park was burnt, although most of this area had been earmarked for controlled burning during the coming season. The elephant herd that was relocated to the Western shores was also not affected and no other loss of wildlife has been reported. (Natalia Thomson)
Comments | 0
© Now Media. This content is protected by copyright and may not be adapted or republished. If you would like to discuss cooperation opportunities, please contact: editor@tourismupdate.com.
