05 February 2009
Wildfires sweeping the Cape are expected to become harder to fight as the strong winds fan and intensify fires.
The Weather Bureau issued dire warning that the heat and high winds predicted for today will create favourable conditions for run away fires in the Western Cape.
Fire fighters battled close to 80 fires in the past 24 hours. With strong winds continuing to create havoc by fanning huge fires which started at the Jonkershoek Nature Reserve on Wednesday. The fire started about one kilometre from the top of the mountain and is now heading towards the Stellenbosch area.
Another fire has broken out on De Vaal Drive close to the CBD with fire fighters battling to control the blaze, road users are asked to use alternative routes. The Fire Control Centre’s Platoon Commander, Clive Smith says the cause of the fire is still unknown.
“We’ve got ten emergency vehicles on scene and a chopper en route to help combat the blaze.”
Video footage of the fire on De Vaal Drive taken by Bush Radio members leaving the city centre
Meanwhile, Disaster managements Charlotte Powell says the current weather conditions will hinder the combating of fire and contribute to run away fires.
“This situation illustrates the need for citizens to exercise extreme caution to reduce fire risk when such dry and windy conditions are being experience.”
She added that Disaster Risk Management will remain on high alert in any eventuality of fires.
“This situation illustrates the need for citizens to exercise extreme caution to reduce fire risk when such dry and windy conditions are being experience.”
She added that Disaster Risk Management will remain on high alert in any eventuality of fires.
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