Western Cape authorities are urging farmers and communities to prepare early for a hotter, potentially more dangerous summer as strengthening El Niño conditions raise the risk of wildfires and pressure on water supplies.
Premier Alan Winde told agricultural stakeholders at NAMPO Cape in Bredasdorp that preparations should begin before summer arrives. The provincial government says higher temperatures, reduced rainfall and dry vegetation could increase risks to farms, livelihoods and food security.
Officials noted that more than 200,000 hectares burned in the province during the previous fire season. Preventive measures being encouraged include maintaining firebreaks, clearing invasive vegetation, improving water-use efficiency and strengthening disaster preparedness.
Source: IOL News. Read the original report.
