Couple dies in Limpopo reserve fire

JOHANNESBURG - An elderly couple was killed, while one third of the Sondela Nature Reserve was destroyed in a devastating fire.

A blaze on a neighbouring property spread quickly into the popular Limpopo game reserve on Saturday afternoon.

At least 850 visitors to the reserve were evacuated.

Almost all of the chalet’s on the property burnt to the ground and about 50 people were treated for minor smoke inhalation.

Management at the reserve said the family of the elderly couple had been informed.

Operations manager Mel Meyer said high wind speeds helped spread the inferno.

He said the highest fence the fire “jumped” was 50 metres long.

Parts of the reserve are still operating.

- EWN