Many took to social media late on Sunday evening to express joy at the reprieve that the expected rains brought as firefighters continue to make every effort to contain the devastating Helderberg fire.
Despite the heroic efforts of firefighters, at least five families have been left devasted as the blaze ripped through their homes next to Silwerboomkloof nature reserve in Somerset Wester over the weekend, as per News24.
Speaking to the online publication, one resident indicated that it was “devasting” and a “frightening spectacle.”
Residents were immediately evacuated as the fire feverishly etched forward, a result of bellowing winds which picked up over the weekend, working against the efforts of firefighters.
Thatched roofs were lost to the flames, with at least five homes standing in the path of the fire. Erinvale Golf Estate has since been evacuated.
Along with property, 24 firefighting appliances and almost 120 firefighters worked tirelessly to contain the blaze with two firefighters injured, and animals also evacuated.
Inspectors of the Cape of Good Hope SPCA have combed through the area of Somerset Wet in search of wild animals which may have been injured or displaced due to the flames, reports EWN.
However, not many animals have been found in the devasted areas across Somerset West so far, but they expect a number of animals to crawl out a few days after the fire in order to get food and water.
Thankfully, inspectors have spotted 20 to 30 baboons from the Lourensford baboon troop. According to the SPCA, they appear to be shaken up by the events, but in good condition.
SPCA inspectors spotted 20 to 30 baboons from the Lourensford baboon troop, which all appeared to be in good condition, but distressed by the recent events.
The organisation is urging the public to contact them immediately if they come across any lost or injured animals: (021) 700-4158/9
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Firefighters battle to get Somerset West blaze under control
Picture: Supplied