No loss of life has yet been reported as the wildfire continues in some parts of Kamiesberg.
This comes after flames ignited in Kamiesberg Local Municipality late on Tuesday, 26 December 2023. It is alleged that the fire was caused by a resident who was burning their garbage, however, the innocent act took for the worse – spreading across surrounding areas.
Due to the weather conditions of the area on the day, the wind assisted the fire directing to the eastern parts threatening homes, animals, livestock and local establishments.
The Namakwa District municipality together with Kamiesberg & Nama-khoi local municipalities, fire brigadiers are trying any means to extinguish the wildfire.
On Wednesday, 27 December, the firefighters failed to reach some of the areas and withdrawn. The district municipality said they made use of the 4×4 vehicles to reach inaccessible fields.
Witnesses said that the fire stopped at Modderfontein. “Homes are safe. Fire is in the direction of Taaiboskraal. Several farmers are involved to help put out the fire”.
Sussarah Nero, Kamiesberg municipality mayor said that 80% of the fire is under control while they trying their utmost best to smother the flames.
Speaking to NFM News, she said “At the moment the fire is under control although this can fluctuate as the winds and hot weather conditions is stoking the fire”. Adding that only one farm has been affected by the raging fire. “Two trucks of a farmer have been burnt”.
The District municipality warn the public to be vigilant of the information they post in the social media surrounding the tragic event.
“It is disturbing that some want to use the disaster for sensationalism and in the process mislead communities with unqualified information. An investigation team will also be formed to determine the origin of the fire,” said the municipality statement.
As a consequence of the recent fire in Kamieskroon, the surrounding community members and businesses experienced power and internet service interruption.
Michelle Louw, Eskom key account manager in the Northern Cape said that they acknowledge the electricity damages caused by the wildfire and their experts are working tirelessly to restore power.
According to the provincial power utility, their team has also confirmed over a kilometer of electricity line has been burnt. The line repair is said will take some time due to the limited resources.
“The timeframe may change should the teams discover any further devastation whilst attempting repairing the line,” said the statement.
