South Africa: Wildfire impacting part of Table Mountain National Park in Cape Town, April 18

Event

Emergency personnel are responding to a wildfire on the slopes of Table Mountain in Cape Town, April 18. South African National Parks (SANPARKS) has issued a statement requesting that persons within the Rhodes Memorial and Newlands sections of Table Mountain National Park evacuate with immediate effect. SANPARKS has also stated that the fire is out of control. Two lanes on the inbound lane of the N2 at Hospital Bend have been closed in response to the fire; however, the route remains open as of 12:00 April 18.

Emergency services will likely remain in place until the fire is extinguished. Further fire growth is likely given the elevated temperatures in the city, April 18. Officials may close parts of major routes in the area to facilitate the fire response.

Advice

Seek updated information on road conditions if driving in the affected area; road closures and detours will cause increased congestion and delays. Individuals in the impact area should consider remaining inside well-ventilated, air-conditioned spaces to reduce exposure to smoke. Individuals with chronic respiratory illnesses may be more susceptible to the negative effects of smoke inhalation. Eye irritation is possible; flush irritated eyes with copious amounts of clean water.