With warmer temperatures ahead and the fire season at our doorstep, the City of Cape Town’s Fire and Rescue Service has raised concern after responding to more than 600 vegetation fires in just one week.

Between Monday, 10 November, and Monday, 17 November, firefighters attended to and extinguished 632 vegetation fires across Cape Town, many of which required multiple vehicles, extended working hours, and coordinated support due to challenging terrain and rapidly spreading flames.

Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, JP Smith, says the strong South Easterly winds experienced throughout the month have been a major contributing factor, fanning small ignitions into large, fast-moving fires.

“Most of these vegetation fires required multiple resources, with crews working for hours, under trying circumstances, to bring the fires under control.”

Smith has urged the public to exercise heightened vigilance, especially on hot, dry, and windy days when the fire risk is at its peak.

Residents are encouraged to report any sign of smoke or fire immediately to the City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre on 021 480 7700, rather than assuming someone else has already done so.

Authorities also remind the public to provide clear details and nearby landmarks when reporting emergencies to ensure the fastest possible response.

Meanwhile, the Provincial Disaster Management Centre has activated a comprehensive Wildfire Readiness Plan for the 2025/26 summer period.

This follows a number of wildfires experienced in the Overberg, Cape Winelands and City this past week.

The most serious incident occurred between Bredasdorp and Napier in the Overberg region on 7 November, which affected large sections of the Heuningberg, Soetmuisberg, and surrounding mountain ranges near Napier.

The plan ensures coordinated provincial, municipal and stakeholder action to safeguard lives, property and the environment.

READ MORE: 140 Displaced after Pelican Park