To prevent further spread, a counter burn was conducted on the eastern head and northeastern corner of a wildfire that broke out on the Garden Route. Local farmers played a crucial role in this effort, using tractors to create plowed firebreaks that supported containment tactics.

Suid-Kaap Forum reports the fire initially broke out in Melkhoutfontein last week, and reignited on Saturday afternoon due to strong winds. Firefighters worked tirelessly to bring it under control by the evening, followed by mopping-up operations yesterday.

Despite these efforts, strong winds caused the fire to flare up again in two major areas: Melkhoutfontein and Hessequa. At present, the wildfire is contained.

Fire crews have been patrolling and mopping up along these lines since 03:00.

The Hessequa Municipality has co-ordinated water supplies for firefighting and remains on stand-by to respond to potential structural fires.

Today, ground crews from Working on Fire will assist with patrolling and mopping up the extensive fire lines on the eastern, northern, and northwestern flanks.

The firefighting efforts are a collaborative undertaking involving GRDM Fire & Rescue Services, Hessequa Municipality Fire & Rescue Services, Working on Fire, local farmers, SCFPA, and GRDM Fire Volunteers in the Hessequa region.

Reporting wildfires

If you spot a wildfire, please contact the GRDM Emergency Call Centre at 044 805 5071 or send a WhatsApp message to 081 709 5193.