Firefighters Continue To Battle Witzenberg Fires

Firefighting teams are still working to contain multiple fires in the Witzenberg area of the Western Cape, more than a week after they began.

According to Cape Winelands District Municipality spokesperson Jo-anne Otto, the fires in the Wellington area have been fully contained, and no injuries have been reported. However, strong winds remain a concern.

"Today is day eight of active firefighting for teams in the Cape Winelands. While the fires in the Wellington area are now fully contained, work continues in the Witzenberg." said Otto.

She added, "There are currently active lines running above the farms of Wakkerstroom, Petervale above PA Hamlet and two lines above Schalkenbosch above Tulbagh. Teams worked hard in the night, however, the combination of high fuel loads and a stiff breeze drove the fire faster than crews could keep up."

Despite the challenging conditions, Otto said firefighters managed to protect electricity pylons and several properties.