Update:
The fire at Fairy Glen Nature Reserve has intensified, driven by powerful winds that are causing the flames to spread rapidly and consume thick vegetation along their path.
The fire, now advancing from the mountain terrain, presents a challenge for the dedicated firefighting team.
Despite the difficult conditions, the team is working diligently with available resources and is currently stationed in the Orange Grove area. All members of the firefighting team are presently safe, with their efforts focused on containing and extinguishing the fire.
The Cape Winelands District Municipality’s Fire Services are facing a tough battle as fires in Breede Valley and Witzenberg continue to rage uncontrollably.
Despite a promising start to the day, a strong northwesterly wind has exacerbated the situation, causing fire lines to spread faster than anticipated.
Initially optimistic about containing at least two of the four fire lines, crews have encountered difficulties throughout the day, with minimal cause for celebration. The only notable progress has been made at the Elandsberg line.
Also read: Improved weather conditions ease out-of-control Cape Winelands fires
Sadly, in Bain’s Kloof/Slanghoek, four properties were lost at Steenbok Park and the fire line swiftly advanced into Tweede Tol, where teams are engaged in structure protection. The fire extends from Bain’s Kloof valley up into the mountains above Slanghoek, covering a length of 6.5 kilometres.
On the Fairy Glen fire outside Worcester, challenges persist, with spots high up in the mountain and a larger section lower down. Ground teams and equipment are actively addressing the situation.
General overview:
- Kluitjieskraal:
- Start date: 22 Jan, 3pm (day 7)
- Area burned to date: 23 600 hectares
- Fairy Glen:
- Start date: 26 Jan, 4pm (day 3)
- Area burned: +- 2000 hectares
- Firefighting resources:
- Ground crew: 11
- Firefighting vehicles: 12
- Total number of fire crew: 115
- Structural impact:
- Structures damaged: 48
Also read:
Roof collapses as fire damages two Sivuyile Residential Facility buildings
Picture: Cape Winelands DM / Facebook