Several fires are burning in the Western Cape, some of which have been extinguished and others contained. However, some are still raging out of control. SANPARKS said this morning that the Newlands Forest Fire, which started on Table Mountain has been contained.

Fires in the Western Cape

However, Spokesperson for South African National Parks, Lauren Clayton-Howard says there are still several stacks burning. She says the blaze is burning through dense forest and there is limited access to water. This contributes to making suppression efforts complex.

Newlands Forest Fire

Currently, there are 30 firefighters on the scene. An additional 30 firefighters from Volunteer Wildfire Services and Working on Fire will join them shortly, to strengthen the firefighting line. She says efforts to control the fire are ongoing.

“We urge all hikers and visitors to avoid the area,” she said.

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Clayton-Howard added that all trails leading into Newlands Forest and Rhodes Estate have been closed to the public as a precautionary measure.

Hemel en Aarde Blaze

Meanwhile, another fire is raging out of control in Hermanus. A spokesperson for the Overstrand Municipality says there’s no threat to life or property at Chanteclair and Kidbrook. Officials are however keeping a close watch and monitoring the situation. Today is the third day of the blaze in Hemel en Aarde, raging out of control.

Clayton-Howard added, “For your safety, please stay clear of the affected areas and follow all official updates from TMNP.”

 

At the same time, firefighters are still monitoring Op Die Berg, outside Ceres, for any flare-ups, after a fire broke out yesterday. Firefighters were able to extinguish the blaze and mopping up operations continued throughout the night.

READ MORE: Fire Management – Table Mountain National Park