Wildfire Spreads Rapidly, Prompts Evacuation in Cape Town

A fast-moving wildfire that broke out in Table Mountain National Park has forced the evacuation of at least 198 households in Cape Town, South Africa, including 48 residents who require special care.

According to Sonika Lategan, spokesperson for the evacuation centre, displaced residents are being temporarily accommodated with relatives or housed in a shelter in Fish Hoek, where medical assistance is also being provided.

Authorities have urged all residents in the vicinity to remain vigilant and strictly follow safety instructions.

Spokesperson for Cape Town’s Fire and Rescue Service stated,“The fire ignited on Friday, April 25. Conditions deteriorated on April 26 due to strong winds, allowing the blaze to quickly spread over several neighborhoods.”

The Western Cape Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning reported that the wildfire remains uncontrolled. Government agencies have mobilized all available resources in an effort to contain it.

Additionally, Manager of Table Mountain National Park, Megan Taplin, said that three helicopters have been deployed to support fire crews working on the ground.

The Western Cape Department of Environmental Affairs and Development said that, “The wildfire has not yet been brought under control, and that government agencies have mobilized all available resources to combat the fire.”

Firefighters have divided the affected area into five sections to maximize firefighting efforts and try to control the fire based on wind speed and direction.