Firefighters are battling the Camps Bay fire after flames broke out near the Pipe Track hiking route on Monday, 29 September.
South African National Parks (SANParks) confirmed that about 50 firefighters are on the scene. The team includes members from SANParks, the City of Cape Town Fire & Rescue Services, Volunteer Wildfire Services (VWS), and Working on Fire (WoF).
A helicopter has been dispatched from George to help with waterbombing. SANParks says this is the nearest available aircraft at this time of year, and its support will be crucial in containing the Camps Bay fire.
“Ground teams are working tirelessly under challenging conditions, and aerial support will play a vital role in containing the fire,” said JP Louw, SANParks Head of Communications.
TRAIL CLOUSURE FOR SAFETY
Officials have closed several hiking trails above the 12 Apostles and Pipe Track as a precaution. SANParks has urged hikers and residents to avoid the area until the Camps Bay fire is under control.
HIGH FIRE RISK IN CAPE TOWN
The Camps Bay fire comes as Cape Town enters its peak fire season. Hot, dry, and windy conditions during spring and summer increase the risk of wildfires across Table Mountain National Park.
Cape Town has faced several destructive fires in recent years. In 2021, flames swept through the University of Cape Town campus, destroying the historic Jagger Library.
Read here for more updates on wildfire containment efforts.
Authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant, report any signs of smoke or fire, and comply with safety closures. SANParks says it will continue to monitor the Camps Bay fire and provide updates as needed.
