The Western Cape fires have continued to push emergency crews to their limits as hot, dry and windy conditions keep igniting new flare-ups across several districts.
According to a recent statement by the MEC for the Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, Anton Bredell, Firefighters, volunteers and residents have spent days protecting homes, communities and nature under intense pressure.
The wildfires plagued the province from 18 to 27 November 2025.
WESTERN CAPE FIRES: WIDESPREAD DAMAGE ACROSS DISTRICTS
The Western Cape fires have burned across mountain slopes, farmlands and nature reserves since 18 November 2025.
Teams have battled harsh heat and strong winds that keep pushing fires into new terrain.
The Cape Winelands District confirmed that crews have finally contained all major fires in the area.
However, the work remains difficult as teams continue to monitor hotspots that pose ongoing risks.
CHALLENGING OPERATIONS IN REMOTE AREAS
Firefighters faced steep mountains, fast-moving flames and unpredictable winds.
In the McGregor area, the fire started in inaccessible terrain at a high elevation, making early suppression nearly impossible.
In Witzenberg, crews worked through the night to control the Visgat and Rocklands fires.
A lightning strike above Swaarmoed Pass triggered a separate blaze in Matroosberg, which required joint aerial and ground operations to contain.
However, the emergency services contained the fire in Goat’s Window and Melozhori (Stormsvlei) in Langeberg.
WESTERN CAPE FIRES: OVERBERG CREWS STILL ON HIGH ALERT
Meanwhile, the Overberg region continues to manage active fire lines.
At De Kelders, ground teams are working to hold a stubborn fire on Farm 722.
In Stanford, volunteer groups and landowners are supporting teams battling another active line.
Grootbos, Walker Bay Nature Reserve and Masakhane also remain high-risk areas.
Fresh crews from the Working on Fire and Volunteer Wildfire Services are joining operations as flare-ups continue.
The local government also warns motorists to drive safely.
It also says Eskom technicians will start repairing faulty lines when it is declared safe to access the damaged areas.
STRONG CALL FOR PUBLIC CAUTION
Although many Western Cape fires have been contained, officials warn that the danger remains high.
Bredell urged the public to act responsibly and report fires immediately.
Even one careless action can endanger entire communities and the firefighters protecting them.
