Water bombers, helicopters and firefighting trucks were utilised to contain the veldfires in Sabie, leaving several hectares of plantation, including gum and pine trees, ravaged by fire.

The fire broke out in the early hours of Saturday, along the R536 Road from Sabie to Hazyview.

While the cause of the fire remains unknown, the South African Weather Services (SAWS) issued a warning for possible fires in the province, as it is a dry and windy season.

Video | Firefighters battle wildfire between Hazyview and Sabie:

The Lowveld and Escarpment Fire Protection Association in Mbombela assisted with water bombers and other resources to contain these fires.

The association General Manager, Andre Scheepers, says the extent of the damage is yet to be determined.

“Currently, we can’t determine the size of the fires due to the ongoing active fires. We will size it up and give a report afterwards. There’s also an investigation that will take place with regard to what the cause of the fire is,” says Schreepers.

Scheepers has warned members of the public, especially farmers, not to start fires as no burning permits are currently being issued due to the risk.

“Currently, no burning permits are issued in the Mpumalanga and Lowveld areas. There’s been a warning posted by the South African Weather Services, and we ask the public to please be very cautious be vigilant out there. No open fires,” adds Schreepers.

Video | Motorists urged to be cautious due to veld fires:

The provincial Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison has also warned road users to remain extra vigilant on the roads due to the smoke and misty conditions as a result of these fires.

The department’s spokesperson, Moeti Mmusi adds that, “While the veldfires have been dealt with, we continue to appeal to motorists to remain vigilant due to the unpredictability of the weather in the event the wind velocity changes. They need to operate their vehicles in such a way that they are able to adjust to prevailing conditions on the road, including veldfires. They also need to maintain a prudent following distance and remain highly alert.”

[WATCH] The Mpumalanga Department of Community Safety is urging motorists to stay vigilant as veld fires cause smoky conditions on major routes, including the N17 near Ermelo, N4 from Witbank to Mbombela, R536 in Sabie, and R537 between Mbombela and Lydenburg. pic.twitter.com/xttpINCgW6

— SABC News (@SABCNews) August 24, 2025