Firefighters battle wildfire threatening residential areas near Glencairn Express Way

Firefighters are battling a wildfire along Glencairn Express Way that threatens nearby residential areas.

The blaze was reported at approximately 12:45 PM on Thursday.

According to Jermaine Carelse, spokesperson for the City of Cape Town Fire and Rescue, crews are working diligently to contain the fire, which is being fanned by strong winds.

“Several crews are currently on site as it appears to be an extensive area of mountain slopes burning, with a strong south-easterly wind fanning the flames,” he explained.

“The Incident Management Team (IMT) has been dispatched to take over operational coordination.

“City firefighters are on scene, along with Table Mountain National Park firefighters and NCC Environmental Services; however, the fire is high up in the mountains and therefore inaccessible to ground crews.

“They are, however, closely monitoring the situation. Updates will be provided if the situation changes.”

JP Louw, spokesperson for the South African National Parks  (SANParks) Head of Communications added that the fires now pose a threat for homes in the vicinity.

“Table Mountain National Park (TMNP), in collaboration with the City of Cape Town Fire & Rescue Services, is actively engaged in firefighting efforts in response to a wildfire currently burning in the Jonkersdam area of TMNP, near the Glencairn Expressway and moving toward Capri,” Louw added.

“The fire has now reached areas threatening residential properties in Capri, prompting an escalated response. Fire crews are working along both the left and right flanks of the fire line to contain its spread.

“Current firefighting resources include over 60 ground crew firefighters and vehicles from SANParks, the City of Cape Town, Newlands Working on Fire, Provincial Disaster Management, and the Volunteer Wildfire Services, with a drone surveillance unit deployed to assist with real-time aerial monitoring and tactical coordination, and residential protection operations currently underway using City of Cape Town resources.

“An Incident Command Centre has been established to coordinate all operations and ensure effective communication and strategic deployment of teams.

“Residents in nearby areas are urged to remain alert and follow instructions from emergency services if issued.”

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