Multiple fires broke out on the Helderberg Mountain in Somerset West on Wednesday and firefighters have been battling to contain them since. Strong winds on Friday night, following through to Saturday, have only made matters worse. More than 120 fire and rescue teams have been deployed.
Cape Town Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson Jermaine Carelse said that firefighters have rallied together and are working tirelessly to contain the raging blaze, including areas that are inaccessible. Some residents have had to evacuate their homes.
The fire has reportedly caused huge devastation to the land. Animals – both wild and domestic – have been affected. A source told Cape {town} Etc that all horses on Lourensford Wine Farm have been evacuated.
Helderberg fire. ?: supplied pic.twitter.com/9ROlzAqi9s
— ROBYN IN THE HOOD (@robynhoodcpt) June 11, 2022
Members of the public have been advised to stay off the roads. This smoke is affecting visibility. Helderberg College Road and Silverboomkloof Road are reportedly closed.
A source shared the following footage and pictures of the devastation with Cape {town} Etc:
Helderberg fire. ?: supplied pic.twitter.com/j605NIO4Pj
— ROBYN IN THE HOOD (@robynhoodcpt) June 11, 2022
As seen on social media:
Wish the rain will come now. The fire on Helderberg still raging. Close to houses now. pic.twitter.com/IsxIyfq251
— Carol Botha (@bothacarol) June 11, 2022
#lourensfordfire spreading over the Helderberg towards the R44 @wo_fire pic.twitter.com/Jsfe4W64Zy
— Nellie van der Walt (@Iam_Nellie) June 11, 2022
Our thoughts and prayers are with the brave firefighters and residents.
*Email [email protected] for credit or to share area information/pictures.
Also read:
Firefighters battle to get Somerset West blaze under control
Picture: Supplied