The Wemmershoek fire in Franschhoek continues to keep firefighters busy as their efforts to contain the blaze enter a new week.
The blaze started last Wednesday in the Langrug area, high up in the mountains, and spread as a result of strong winds and high temperatures. Fires in other parts of the region have since been contained.
But the Cape Winelands District Municipality (CWDM) confirmed on Monday that the fire was still active in the area.
On Sunday, a CWDM spokesperson, Anesca Roodt, noted that the blaze was moving closer toward farmland along the R301 Wemmershoek Road, but shifted back later in the day.
High temperatures and windy conditions on Sunday further fuelled flare-ups in areas where the blaze had already been contained.
“[The flare-ups] were promptly attended to in previously contained areas. The CapeNature, Drakenstein Municipality and Volunteer Wildlife Services were deployed and successfully contained multiple flare-ups,” said Roodt.
She added that the Winelands Fire Protection Association and Stellenbosch Municipality have also assisted in firefighting efforts.
“The Winelands Fire Protection Association deployed aerial resources and, with assistance from the Stellenbosch Municipality, focused on structure protection at Mont Rochelle, Chamonix Wine Estate and surrounding farms.”
Roodt said efforts to contain the blaze or slow its spread continue.
“Active firefighting operations were conducted along accessible fire lines, with backburning implemented where necessary,” said Roodt.
While the fire is still blazing, authorities have confirmed that there have been no reported losses. Roodt said “no injuries, damage, or loss of property have been reported during this operational period”.
At the same time, she added that the SPCA is also on standby to assist should any animals be affected by the fire.
“Monitoring and mopping-up operations continue in areas where the fire has been contained… Fire line conditions will be assessed, after which actions for the next operational period will be determined.”
Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning MEC, Anton Bredell, and the mayors of the Cape Winelands, Drakenstein and Stellenbosch Municipalities are expected to meet in Wemmershoek on Monday on the matter.
Furthermore, the Cape Winelands District Municipality has extended its gratitude, saying Fire Services “extend sincere thanks to all individuals and community organisations for their generous donations and ongoing support,” as crews brace for another demanding day on the fire line.
