Firefighters are battling a blaze in Kleinmond for the fourth consecutive day, which has destroyed an estimated 4,700 hectares of fynbos and plantations so far.
Picture: Greater Overberg FPA
The fire, which broke out on Saturday, 8 January, has ravaged parts of the Overberg near Kleinmond, forcing authorities to close the R44 for traffic.
According to an update from the Overberg Municipality on Tuesday, the fire is posing no threat to town and infrastructure. ‘All roads leading in and from Kleinmond to Hermanus is open including the Karwyderskraal road,’ the statement read. ‘Crews worked through the night continuously to put out hot spots and cool down the vicinity of Arabella and Karwyderskraal.’
On Tuesday, authorities reopened all roads to Kleinmond and Hermanus, including the Karwyderskraal Road. Environmental Affairs and Development Planning MEC Anton Bredell visited the scene, commenting that the situation is looking better thanks to the extensive firefighting during the night.
‘The town is safe and no properties are under threat. The area around the Arabella Golf Estate is also largely secured, with no significant damage reported. The section in the direction of Karwyderskraal is still active but under control.
Picture: Enviro Wildfire Pty Ltd – Western Cape
At any given moment, there are more than 200 people actively deployed to combat the fire and ensure that the local population is safe. The Heuningkloof suburb of Kleinmond was evacuated yesterday as a precautionary measure.
There have been no fatalities due to the fire so far, and resources which include 10 fire engines and aerial support, have been focusing on protecting fire lines at the Kleinmond Golf Clun and Arabella Estate.
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