Firefighters battle massive blaze in Cape Town's Overberg region
Firefighters and volunteers spent much of the weekend battling a large vegetation blaze in the Overberg, as hot, dry conditions and strong winds fuel the spread of flames across farmlands.
Image: Supplied
Cape Town is heading into a dangerous summer. Fires are already raging in the Overberg, and officials are warning residents to stay alert.
Hot, dry, and windy conditions have fuelled vegetation fires, and the current heatwave has made the situation even more hazardous.
Since early Saturday, firefighters, farmers, and volunteers have been battling a massive blaze between Bredasdorp and Napier.
By 2pm on Sunday, the fire was still active, with “long and very active fire lines” threatening farmlands. A fresh NCC Wildfires team was deployed to prevent the flames from reaching Napier town, while crews worked through the night to contain hot spots.
Wind changes and difficult terrain are complicating the efforts, making coordination essential.
Local farmers, supported by the Overberg District Municipality Fire Service, have been working tirelessly to limit damage. Community support has been overwhelming. Residents, retailers, and aid organisations have donated food, water, and essential supplies.
Gift of the Givers has sent additional teams to sustain firefighters with energy drinks, snacks, lip balm, and eye-care products. Volunteers are also assisting with livestock evacuation and supporting the crews on the ground.
JP Smith, Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, said the City’s Fire and Rescue Service is under “relentless pressure.”
Vegetation fires have risen sharply in recent years. Between October 2021 and January 2022, the City recorded 5 331 fires. By 2024/25, that number had climbed to 7 480 — a 40% increase. Smith warned that the same weather conditions that fuel wildfires also increase the risk of devastating fires in informal settlements. He urged residents to act responsibly, stay alert, and report any fires immediately.
Meanwhile, a minor fire at the V&A Waterfront on Friday drew attention after a similar incident a few weeks ago. Donald Kau, head of communications for the Waterfront, said a piece of insulation caught fire during roof construction.
“The flames were quickly brought under control and extinguished by our team with no damage to any trading areas,” he said. The affected Woolworths store was evacuated as a precaution, and trade resumed within an hour. Kau said the Waterfront regularly conducts fire drills and inspections to ensure all areas are prepared for emergencies.
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