Cape Town - Firefighters continued battling the Newlands Ravine fire that broke out on Sunday and flared-up again on Tuesday. SANParks said the fire occurred in difficult conditions on steep slopes and rugged terrain.
On Tuesday morning, firefighting crews walked into the fire line at first light to relieve those who fought the fire throughout the night.
Two helicopters and a spotter plane were dispatched at 6:40am to contain the spread of the right flank of the fire which was spreading towards Devil’s Peak. Of particular concern for SANParks was the wind prediction for the afternoon, which it said could significantly impact the Devil’s Peak section of the fire.
“The priority is focused on mop-up operations and containing any potential spread in this area.
“Regarding the Newlands Ravine Fire, 83 firefighters were dispatched, with 20 additional firefighters sent to fires in Signal Hill and Ocean View (Monday) evening.
“This effort is done in conjunction with the City of Cape Town Fire and Rescue Services and Provincial Disaster Management,” said SANParks.
SANParks spokesperson, JP Louw, said approximately 60 hectares of veld burned in the Newlands Ravine and Devil’s Peak area by Tuesday.
“Overnight, multiple flare-ups occurred in inaccessible areas, requiring crews to remain on scene at both the base and head of the fire for continued monitoring and suppression efforts where accessible.“Trails in the Newlands, Devil’s Peak and Maclears Beacon areas were closed (Monday) due to the fire and remain closed until further notice for safety reasons.
“Rock falls have occurred due to the fire and boardwalks have burnt, making the trails unsafe for hikers.“A significant concern remains the continued presence of hikers in areas that have been closed off due to fire damage.
“Despite repeated warnings, individuals were encountered along the burnt trails this morning.
“We urge the public to strictly adhere to all trail closures for their safety and to allow firefighting teams to complete their operations unhindered.
“Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and will provide further updates as necessary.”