A precautionary evacuation order has been called for, for residents of Heuningkloof in light of the flames that are still out of control in the Kleinmond area, Overberg.
The Overstrand Municipality had also confirmed earlier that the R44 between Heuningkloof Kleinmond and T-junction at Arabella remains closed as firefighters continue to contain the fire that broke out on Saturday, January 8.
According to reports, the initial fire that started in the mountain area of the mountains near Kleinmond in the Overberg region of the Western Cape has now destroyed nearly 4 000 hectares of land.
Working on Fire spokesperson, Limakatso Khalianyane, indicated earlier this morning that no properties were damaged, but teams are continuing to battle the blaze.
“Ground crews, firefighters from Working on Fire as well as other firefighting agencies are working tirelessly to put out the blaze. Aerial resources flew earlier on but they had to withdraw due to the wind.”
“They continue to be on standby in order to assist whenever weather conditions are favourable and whenever they are required,” Khalianyane said.
Also read: Additional firefighters called on to assist with the blaze in Kleinmond
Meanwhile, the Overstrand’s Municipality Fire Chief, Lester Smit, said that the fire is currently raging low on the mountain slopes. According to Smit, there is a number of vehicles and ground crews on the scene busy fighting this fire.
“Aerial resources was also requested to assist with structure protection in the Heuningklip area. You can also expect road closures at short notice. The current status, fire not under control and not contained yet,” Smit said.
The📍Highlands Fire (Kleinmond) has been ongoing since 8 January – more than 100 firefighters & aerial resources have been called in to assist our partners battle the blaze. We commend all the brave men and women fighting this fire.
WATCH: https://t.co/rhqZPJhb6j pic.twitter.com/evKnoKj4ZU
— Working on Fire (@wo_fire) January 10, 2022
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Picture: Facebook/Coca-Cola Peninsula Beverages