Wildfires are ravaging the Western and Eastern Cape provinces, with firefighters working tirelessly to contain the blazes. In Mossel Bay, Western Cape, progress has been made in bringing the wildfire under control, but teams remain deployed to monitor hotspots and prevent flare-ups.
The Cape Winelands District Municipality’s Fire Services reports that the wildfire in Langrug and Franschhoek areas is still burning out of control, despite cool weather overnight. A reconnaissance flight is planned to assess the full extent of the wildfire and determine its current direction.
The wildfire reported yesterday in Stormsvlei continues to burn, with an active fire line of approximately 2 km. Two fresh ground teams have been deployed to continue active firefighting operations in the Stormsvlei area.
In the Kouga municipality, Eastern Cape, there has been little damage to property, with a few houses affected by the current wildfire. Firefighters are battling a concerning wildfire in the Kabeljous area, where a plane is deployed to assist in putting out the fires.
Mayor Hatingh Bornman says 40 people were sheltered at a temporary accommodation after being evacuated from their homes due to the wildfire. Kabeljous in Jeffreys Bay remains an area of concern, with a helicopter, water bomber plane, and fire trucks fighting to get the wildfire under control.
N2 Road Closed
The N2 between Jeffrey’s Bay and Humansdorp has reopened after being closed due to re-ignition of the wildfire. The Gift of the Givers is supporting fire-fighting efforts in Jeffreys Bay and Humansdorp.
Cape Winelands District Municipality’s Fire Services spokesperson, Anesca Roodt, says the reconnaissance flight will assess the full extent of the wildfire and determine its current direction. Managing Director at Working on Fire, Trevor Abrahams, warns residents in areas near the wildfires in both Eastern and Western Cape may need to evacuate and should be prepared.
Authorities urge residents to remain vigilant, avoid affected areas, and follow official updates as fire crews work to fully contain the wildfires and assess the full extent of the damage. The wildfire has caused significant damage to power infrastructure, leaving communities without electricity.
The Kouga municipality has issued an immediate evacuation order for residents in several high-risk areas as fires rage uncontrollably. Firefighters are focusing on containment rather than full suppression due to the terrain and prevailing conditions.
The Western Cape is experiencing an exceptionally severe fire season, with hot and dry conditions expected to continue. Residents are advised to reduce fire loads by maintaining green gardens with indigenous plants and creating firebreaks.
The fire has destroyed several homes and vehicles in Mossel Bay, with at least three firefighters injured. Emergency accommodation has been provided for displaced residents.
The situation remains critical, with firefighters battling multiple blazes across the region. Authorities are urging residents to exercise caution and restraint, avoiding areas affected by the fires.
The Gift of the Givers is supporting fire-fighting efforts, and local businesses have donated food and resources for displaced residents and firefighters.
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