Firefighters Battle Wildfire Near Kalk Bay in Western Cape

Emergency response teams are currently combatting a wildfire that erupted near Trappieskop in Kalk Bay, Western Cape Province on February 12th. The fire was first reported around 2:20 pm local time and rapidly spread towards the nearby St. James area, fueled by particularly hot winds.

The City of Cape Town confirmed that the wildfire, although predominantly under control, poses a significant threat to the vicinity. An unoccupied residence has reportedly been destroyed by the blaze, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.

Efforts to contain the fire have enlisted the services of multiple agencies including the City of Cape Town Fire and Rescue Services, South African National Parks (SANParks), Table Mountain National Park, NCC Environmental Services, Working on Fire, and the Volunteer Wildfire Services.

Jermaine Carelse, a spokesperson for the Fire and Rescue Services, highlighted that aerial support has been crucial in addressing the wildfire. By evening, firefighting operations remained underway, with several helicopters and a spotter plane aiding in extinguishing the flames.

Lauren Clayton from SANParks noted that the situation remains unstable, emphasizing the ongoing need for vigilance. As the fire traversed Boyes Drive, road closures including Boyes Drive and Kalk Bay Main Road were enforced, disrupting travel in the area.