'Hectic' fires on the cards

Firefighters are bracing for a challenging summer season as Cape Town's Southern Suburbs face an increased wildfire threat. Experts warn that urban development along the mountain fringes, combined with changing climate patterns, is intensifying the city’s annual fire season.

- NAMHLA MONAKALI

According to the City’s Fire and Rescue Service, vegetation fires are most common during the hot, dry and windy months from November to April.

“The City’s Fire and Rescue Service concentrates on all types of risks within the boundaries of the City of Cape Town,” said Jermaine Carelse, the service’s spokesperson. “Vegetation fires are more prevalent during the warm, dry and windy months, from November to March or April.”

Carelse added that the City’s firefighting capacity will be strengthened for the season.