The Fire Services of the Cape Winelands District Municipality (CWDM) has been battling several fires across various locations since yesterday.
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According to the municipality, the number of fires responded to exceeds 24. ‘As we anticipate wet and rainy conditions, we hope for much-needed relief in our ongoing battle against these fires across the district,’ it stated in a Facebook post.
Pappagaaiberg Fire:
As per the municipality, the fire on Pappagaaiberg in Stellenbosch has been contained. Two contracted ground teams and three CWDM firefighting vehicles worked throughout the night despite challenging windy conditions.
Fresh teams will be deployed this morning for mopping up operations and monitoring until the area is deemed safe.
Stellenbosch fires:
CWDM teams also responded to two fires within the Stellenbosch municipal area. The fire on Simonsberg, Pniel, continues to burn out of control. One contracted ground team is currently on site. Another CWDM firefighting vehicle and crew have been dispatched to the fire in Jamestown.
Mitchell’s Pass Fire:
The fire has been contained thanks in part to the expected rainfall. Crews were able to move on to other areas where their assistance was needed.
City of Cape Town:
CWDM Fire Services assisted in battling two fires on the borders of the City of Cape Town. Three firefighting vehicles responded to a fire between the N1 and R304. Yesterday, fire teams responded to a fire at the Durbanville and Klipheuwel crossing. This fire was successfully contained on the Klipheuwel side.
According to the Drakenstein Farm Watch, inclement weather is causing havoc as the DFW control and command centre continues to respond to many calls for assistance.
Power outages due to infrastructural damage have been reported, and windy conditions have blown off roofs and trees through fences, which has blocked roads and fires. Damaged power cables are reportedly the source of the fires in this area.
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Picture: Cape Winelands DM / Facebook