Firefighters battle to contain Table Mountain wildfire

Photo Credit: Image courtesy of SABC

Firefighters continue to battle a wildfire burning in the central and southern sections of Table Mountain National Park. Approximately 250 personnel from multiple agencies have been working tirelessly throughout the night to contain the blaze. The fire remains uncontained and is now dangerously close to Boyes Drive, above St James and Kalk Bay.​

SANParks spokesperson JP Louw stated that firefighters are focusing on preventing the fire from reaching nearby communities. The fire, which began on Friday evening in the Upper Tokai area, was largely contained until late Sunday morning. However, due to a change in wind conditions and strong gusting winds overnight, the fire has since spread toward Tafelberg Road and Vredehoek.​

Eyewitness News reports that authorities have closed several roads in the affected areas, including Ou Kaapse Weg, due to thick smoke and reduced visibility. More than 190 households have been evacuated from neighborhoods such as Noordhoek, Steenberg Estate, Ou Kaapse Weg, and Clovelly.

Firefighting efforts have been bolstered by the deployment of additional resources from neighboring districts and the use of aerial support, including water-bombing helicopters. Despite these efforts, the fire remains uncontained, and authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.​