South Africa: Emergency crews responding to wildfires across parts of Western Cape as of Jan. 26

Emergency crews are responding to at least two wildfires of concern across parts of Western Cape as of Jan. 26. One fire is burning in the Suurvlakte area of Cape Winelands District Municipality and is split into two firelines on either side of the Obiqua Mountain. On the Wolselely side of the mountain in the Kluitjieskraal area the fire has destroyed at least one home and vehicle and several agricultural structures. Some residents were evacuated as a precuation Jan. 25 but have been allowed to return home as of early Jan. 26. Homes in Bain’s Kloof are also being threatened by the fire. On the other side of the mountain, the fire is moving toward Elandsberg Nature Reserve but is spreading slower than on the Wolseley side.

Another fire broke out early Jan. 25 in the Tygerberg Hills in the eastern outskirts of Cape Town. The fire remains uncontrolled due to flare-ups as of Jan. 26 and residents of Kanonberg Estate and Oude Westhof have been evacuated as a precaution. The fires have broken out amid hot, dry, and windy conditions and the difficult terrain has also hampered firefighting efforts. As of Jan. 26, the South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued weather advisories for high temperatures across central parts of Western Cape; further growth of existing fires and new fire outbreaks are possible over the coming days.

Officials could close roads at short notice to facilitate firefighting operations, and further evacuation orders are possible. Ground travel disruptions are likely, as are disruptions on available parallel routes. Authorities could expand mandatory evacuation orders depending on evolving wildfire conditions. Smoke from the fires could cause poor air quality across the region. Low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall could contribute to traffic delays and congestion in the region. Localized power outages are possible.