The Camps Bay fire has been successfully contained after firefighting crews worked through the night and early morning, Table Mountain National Park (TMNP) has confirmed.
Authorities reported that the blaze affected approximately 25 hectares of vegetation. They are still investigating the cause.
FIRE CONTAINED OVERNIGHT
Fresh teams of around 50 firefighters are monitoring hotspots and attending flare-ups. Meanwhile, aerial support will assist operations later today.
Specialist contractor Enviro Wildfire Consultancy is using thermal drones to detect underground hotspots that could reignite.
“Fire crews made significant progress overnight, but ground teams will remain on the line today to ensure the area is safe,” said JP Louw, SANParks Head of Communications.
TRAILS REMAIN CLOSED
As a precaution, several popular hiking trails and access points remain closed:
- Footpaths and Jeep Tracks to Camps Bay
- Pipe Track
- Theresa Avenue and Geneva Avenue
- Trails accessing Camps Bay from Back Table and Apostle Battery
- Trails above the Twelve Apostles
TMNP urges hikers to respect closures until the area is declared safe.
HEATWAVE WARNING INCREASES FIRE RISK
The South African Weather Service has issued a heat warning for the Western Cape, with temperatures expected to reach uncomfortable levels. TMNP advises park users to:
- Carry sufficient water
- Wear light, breathable clothing
- Use sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
- Avoid hiking between 11am and 3pm
- Stick to designated trails
- Inform someone of their route and estimated return time
- Stay alert for smoke or fire
COMMUNITY SUPPORTS FIRE CREWS
SANParks thanked Pick n Pay Waterfront and Simply Asia for donating food, water, and energy drinks to support the firefighting crews. Furthermore, members of the public who wish to assist can drop off donations at the Newlands Fire Base.
Overall, SANParks expressed gratitude to all partners, ground crews, and the public for their continued support during the Camps Bay fire.
