Local firefighters are engaged in a major effort to contain a wildfire on Table Mountain that has spread toward Cape Town’s business district, raising concerns among residents.
Wildfire Near Cape Town Escalates as Firefighters Continue Battle
Wildfire Near Cape Town Escalates as Firefighters Continue Battle
A persistent wildfire on Table Mountain threatens Cape Town's urban area, prompting extensive firefighting efforts and park closings.
Firefighters in Cape Town are currently engaged in a fierce battle against a wildfire that has erupted in Table Mountain National Park, with the blaze moving dangerously close to the city’s central business district. As of early Wednesday morning, local authorities reported that the fire has been raging for several days in the Newlands vicinity of the park, but strong winds overnight have propelled flames closer to urban areas.
Edward Bosch, spokesperson for the Cape Town Fire and Rescue Service, indicated that while the exact extent of the fire and its potential damage were still being assessed, it could be categorized as “extensive.” Fortunately, he stated there was no immediate threat to downtown Cape Town, although he warned that conditions were dynamic and caution should be exercised.
In light of the ongoing fire, various trails within Table Mountain National Park, a favored destination for tourists and locals alike, have been closed to the public since the onset of the blaze earlier this week. By Monday, the fire had consumed approximately 148 acres of land, raising concerns over hikers in areas that had been restricted for safety reasons. Additionally, a separate fire was reported in the Red Hill area of the park.
Despite the severity of the situation, authorities have not yet mandated any evacuations. Mr. Bosch mentioned that two helicopters were deployed for water-bombing efforts at dawn on Wednesday, with a third helicopter en route from Stellenbosch. He expressed optimism that if weather conditions remain favorable, firefighters could gain control of the situation by the end of the day.
Over 80 firefighters from various agencies have been assigned to combat the flames. The operators of the cable car connecting Table Mountain to Cape Town announced via social media that service would be suspended indefinitely due to smoke from the fire.
In recent years, the Western Cape province has faced numerous mountain fires, prompting concern among residents living near the mountain’s base. Ecologists have encouraged park officials to consider more controlled burnings of vegetation to prevent future uncontrollable wildfires.
