Emergency crews respond to a fast-moving fire between Hout Bay and Constantia amid challenging weather conditions.
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Firefighters are continuing efforts to contain a wildfire in the Vlakkenberg area, which broke out along the Pipe Track above Hout Bay yesterday, Tuesday, March 24.
According to Lauren Howard-Clayton of SANParks, shifting winds overnight led to flare-ups along the left flank of the fire, which remains active.
“Strong winds and low cloud cover have continued to hamper firefighting operations, although crews are working to contain the blaze across Vlakkenberg and Constantia. Approximately 160 hectares have already been affected,” she said.
Ms Howard-Clayton said around 70 SANParks firefighters remain on the fire line, supported by partner agencies, with an additional 30 ground crews deployed this morning, Wednesday, March 25.
Aerial firefighting resources have been in use, although operations have at times been limited by low cloud, she said.
Ward councillor Roberto Quintas said the fire, which began on Grotto Road in Hout Bay, has since crested the ridge and is spreading towards Klein Constantia Farm.
However, he said the fire remains high on the slopes and poses no immediate threat to residential areas.
A helicopter drops water over active fire lines on Vlakkenberg amid ongoing firefighting efforts.
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Helicopters were deployed at first light, alongside six City fire engines, two water tankers, City Incident Management Teams, and crews from Table Mountain Fire & Rescue and the Volunteer Wildfire Services, he said.
“Our thanks go to these service men and women who put their lives on the line to manage unpredictable and high-risk fire events to protect human life and property,” he said.
City Fire and Rescue spokesperson Jermaine Carelse confirmed that the fire is being monitored on both the Hout Bay and Klein Constantia sides, describing it as an extensive fire area that has been divided into two operational zones.
On the Hout Bay side, firefighting vehicles have been positioned near the Pipe Track.
Mr Carelse said three helicopters had conducted water-bombing operations but were later withdrawn due to unfavourable weather conditions.
He said that recent rainfall has helped to slow the spread of the fire and that no properties are currently under threat.
“Ground crews from Table Mountain National Park and the Newlands City Conservation remain on scene,” he said.
Authorities have urged members of the public to comply with all trail closures and safety restrictions while firefighting operations continue.
Firefighting efforts continue across Table Mountain National Park as strong winds and low cloud hamper operations.
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