Severe fires in the Western Cape lead to property destruction and displacement

SEVERAL Western Cape municipalities had their hands full over the weekend battling severe fire conditions, which destroyed properties, land and left several residents displaced.

- THEOLIN TEMBO

In the Theewaterskloof Municipality, firefighting operations had continued throughout the night following severe fire conditions experienced on Saturday when a fire broke out on the N2 at Myddelton, before the Caledon Casino.

Just before midday on Saturday, the municipality said the situation had stabilised, with containment achieved in key areas, and active monitoring and mop-up operations remaining in place.

"The main fire front has been brought under control. Isolated flareups were recorded near Tuinsig and behind Caledon Casino, with backburning successfully completed to strengthen fire lines. Fire activity extended into the Nature Garden area, where crews remain on active patrol," they said.