27 Jan 2024 | 01:48 PM UTC
South Africa: Wildfire in Table Mountain National Park in Cape Town prompt evacuations Jan. 27
Emergency response ongoing to wildfire in Table Mountain National Park, Cape Town, South Africa, Jan. 27. Tafelberg Road closed.
Evacuations are ongoing as emergency personnel continue responding to a wildfire on Table Mountain in Cape Town, the afternoon of Jan. 27. Reports indicate that the fire has spread from Tafelberg Road up to Platteklip Gorge. Authorities have evacuated the upper and lower stations of the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway and advised hikers to evacuate from Platteklip Gorge and surrounding areas.
Emergency services will likely remain in place until the fire is extinguished. Officials may close additional roads in the area to facilitate the fire response. Further evacuations of tourists and hikers are possible in the coming hours.
Heed the directives of the authorities. Seek updated information on road conditions if driving in the affected area; road closures and detours will cause increased congestion and delays. Individuals near 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.
