Photo: SANParks
VIDEO: Lightning strike causes fire at filling station in Kruger National Park
A fire caused by lightning destroyed a filling station in the Kruger National Park and guests heading there were cautioned to plan for fuel.
Photo: SANParks
A lightning strike on Saturday evening sparked a fire at the filling station at Lower Sabie. The fire destroyed the entire station.
THE ENTIRE STATION WAS DESTROYED IN BLAZE
According to SANParks spokesperson Isaac Phaahla, the fire was brought under control on Saturday evening.
“The filling station at Lower Sabie is currently closed due to a fire that broke out earlier this Saturday evening, caused by lightning,” he said.
He said guests heading to the Kruger National Park need to plan for fuel either from Skukuza or Crocodile Bridge until further notice.
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“The fire was on Saturday evening contained to the fuel station only, with the KNP fire engine and team under the leadership of Piet van Wyk who were all on the scene, and the fire seems to be under control.
“The fire team from Malelane has been dispatched as a safety precaution, as they have all the capabilities to deal with these types of fires,” Phaahla said.
NO INJURIES WERE REPORTED IN THE FIRE
It was not clear at this stage what the damages were.
According to a visitor who witnessed the fire, employee vehicles were also destroyed in the fire.
“No one was injured. We thought for a moment that we had been struck and our camper is about 80 metres away,” Antonio Da Cruz said.
Earlier this month guests were evacuated following a fire in the central area of the Kruger National Park.
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GUESTS EVACUATED LAST MONTH DUE TO ANOTHER FIRE
“Guests have been evacuated from Tamboti and Kingfisherspruit Ranger Post as a precaution. Fire fighting teams are on the scene,” said Kruger National Park in a statement.
This was the second fire in a week. On 24 October, the park warned tourists of a large fire in Tshokwane.
It said the hot temperatures and wind speed were making it impossible for firefighters to control the blaze at the time.
“The cause of the fire is unknown. The fire is currently being monitored as there has not been any damage to infrastructure except for a ranger’s tent, which has been destroyed.
“No injuries have been reported. Other sections are on standby to assist should the need arise. All are urged to remain calm and vigilant,” said the park at the time.
