A massive blaze broke out at the South African Breweries (SAB) Baragwanath Depot, located in the south of Johannesburg, on Thursday afternoon, prompting a swift response from local emergency services.
According to Johannesburg Emergency Services, the fire was initially triggered by nearby grass catching alight. Strong winds reportedly carried the flames toward the SAB facility, where the fire spread rapidly and ignited crates stored on the premises.
Emergency Services spokesperson, Xolile Khumalo, confirmed that no injuries had been reported at the time of the incident. “Emergency teams are working swiftly to contain the fire and prevent further damages. The cause of the fire is not yet known. EMS is urging residents to stay clear of the area as a precaution,” Khumalo stated.
Flames and thick plumes of smoke could be seen rising from the depot, alarming nearby residents and businesses. Firefighters were deployed to the scene immediately and have been working tirelessly to bring the situation under control..
While the full extent of the damage is still being assessed, early reports indicate that significant stock loss has occurred. The depot, a crucial hub in SAB’s supply and distribution network, stores large quantities of beer crates and packaging materials—many of which are highly flammable.
Authorities have cordoned off the surrounding area and issued a public safety warning to motorists and residents. People are being advised to avoid the vicinity of Baragwanath and surrounding roads to ensure that emergency teams can continue their operations without obstruction.
https://x.com/MDNnewss/status/1938218893782184302?t=jVjVAQK1Q_SHqE5EgHY3FQ&s=19
As investigations into the incident begin, it remains unclear whether the grass fire was accidental or the result of human activity. Johannesburg Emergency Services have pledged to conduct a thorough investigation in collaboration with fire safety officials.
Social media has since been flooded with photos and videos of the raging fire, with some clips showing loud popping sounds—believed to be caused by exploding bottles and crates caught in the flames. The visuals have sparked concern among members of the public, especially those living or working near the depot.
This incident adds to the growing concern about the vulnerability of industrial sites to nearby fires, especially during dry and windy conditions. Experts have often warned about the need for stricter firebreak management and buffer zones between industrial properties and open land.
The South African Breweries is expected to release a statement in due course, once they have assessed the full impact of the fire on operations.
For now, the priority remains containment, safety, and cleanup. The fire serves as a stark reminder of how quickly flames can spread in urban industrial zones—and the importance of rapid emergency response.
Residents are urged to follow updates from Johannesburg Emergency Services and avoid the affected area until the fire is fully extinguished and declared safe.