Overstrand Municipality faces severe fires leading to road closures
The Stanford fire posed a threat to Die Kop informal settlement.
Image: Overstrand Municipality / Facebook
Road closures had to be reinstated in the Overstrand Municipality earlier this morning as fires continue to rage in the area.
An Oryx helicopter from the South African Air Force (SAAF) was deployed to Stanford at first light as a priority.
Earlier today, Overstrand Municipal Manager Dean O’Neill confirmed that the R43 has been closed again between Stanford and De Kelders.
For the detour routes, O’Neill said: “When using the Grootbos/Papiesvlei gravel road detour, please switch on your headlights and reduce your speed. Visibility is low due to dust and uneven surfaces along several sections of the road. Many motorists are also unfamiliar with this route, so please drive with extra caution.”
On Friday evening, the municipality announced that the Pearly Beach fire was still burning actively and remains out of control.
The fire in this area has been burning for seven days, and at about 3pm on Friday experienced three flare-ups. The flare-ups have encroached on the Pearly Beach resort.
“The fire made a 180-degree turn and spread in an easterly direction, fanned by high wind speeds,” O’Neill said.
The fire was burning along the R43, from Duinefontein Game Reserve towards Uilkraalmond.
On Friday evening, O’Neill said: “The area at Pearly Beach Resort is burning with high intensity, with the fire moving onto the resort. Firefighters are actively engaged in suppression efforts, and an additional specialised ground team will be deployed this evening to help contain the fire. The fire is burning on two sides at Eluxolweni. On one side, teams managed to guide the fire around the informal settlement, while on the other side, fire suppression activities continue. The area, therefore, remains at risk. An alert SMS was issued to residents to remain aware,” said O’Neill.
The Stanford fire has been burning for four days, with about 80 individuals temporarily relocated to the Stanford Community Hall.
“Approximately 5,300 ha of land burned. Firefighting activities continue. The fire posed a threat to Die Kop informal settlement, and a possible evacuation was communicated. Thembelihle was also warned of heavy smoke and advised to stay alert in case an evacuation becomes necessary.
“Twenty-two households (approximately 80 individuals) are currently being accommodated at Stanford Community Hall,” said O’Neill.
Firefighting crews and ground teams remained on the line through the night.