CÀ MAU — More than 43,500ha of forest in the southern province of Cà Mau is at high risk of fire due to prolonged hot weather, according to the provincial forest management, agricultural and rural development departments.

More than 14,300ha of forest is at the fifth warning level – the highest.

The areas facing the most danger are the U Minh Hạ Forest and Hòn Khoai Island.

More than 8,500ha of natural indigo forest in the U Minh Hạ National Park has been put under strict protection.

Provincial organisations warned that the dry season this year will last until May with severe hot weather, so the risk will increase.

At present, the water level in canals is about 0.5-0.8m lower than the same period in previous years, so it is forecast that several will soon run dry, making it difficult to extinguish fires.

Forest management organisations have developed plans to restore water, give training on fire prevention and control to local forces, and educate to local residents on preventive measures.

So far, the province has built 84 dams, prepared 100 pumping machines and 48,000m of pipelines for extinguishing fires. More than 1,500 people are ready to help battle the blazes. — VNS