A fire which has affected an area of approximately 1 500 hectares has ignited in the Tsitsikamma Section of the Garden Route National Park, located north of the Bloukrans Bridge. This fire was caused by a lightning strike.
The fire remains inaccessible due to the challenging terrain and efforts to contain it are primarily carried out through counter burns and aerial water bombing. Several counter burns have steered the fire away from commercial plantations and critical infrastructure. The firefighting team is currently conducting a counter-burn, with another one planned for early tomorrow with the weather permitting.
The management of the fire is conducted under a Joint Operational Command (JOC) between SANParks, Southern Cape Fire Protection Association (SCFPA) and Mountain to Ocean (MTO) Group, ensuring a coordinated response to the situation. Aerial resources have been deployed and are kept on-site for quick reaction to flare-ups, minimizing ferry costs and ensuring a rapid response.
SANParks also confirms that the fire is managed as a controlled burn and not a runaway wildfire. Measures are in place to prevent the fire from spreading uncontrollably and potentially cause damage to property or affect lives.
SANParks also urge members of the public to stay clear from the affected areas to allow emergency services to carry out their work without hindrance.