Newlands fire UPDATE: Fire destroys 60 hectares of vegetation

Firefighters are continuing to battle the Newlands Ravine fire, which broke out in the early hours of Sunday morning.

The fire is in a difficult area to access on steep slopes and rugged terrain.

Fought the fire throughout the night

On Monday morning, firefighting crews walked into the fire line at first light to relieve those who fought the fire throughout the night.

Two helicopters and a spotter plane were dispatched at 06:40 to contain the spread of the right flank of the fire, which was spreading towards Devil’s Peak.

Of particular concern at this stage is the wind prediction for the afternoon, which could significantly impact the Devil’s Peak section of the fire.

The current priority is focused on mop-up operations and containing any potential spread in this area.

Regarding the Newlands Ravine Fire, 83 firefighters were dispatched, with 20 additional firefighters sent to fires in Signal Hill and Ocean View on Sunday evening.

This was done in conjunction with the City of Cape Town Fire and Rescue Services and Provincial Disaster Management.

Approximately 60 hectares of veld have thus far burned in the Newlands Ravine and Devils Peak area.

Overnight, multiple flare-ups occurred in inaccessible areas, requiring crews to remain on scene at both the base and head of the fire for continued monitoring and suppression efforts where accessible.

Trails closed

Trails in the Newlands, Devil’s Peak, and Maclears Beacon areas were closed on Sunday due to the fire and remain closed until further notice for safety reasons.

Rock falls have occurred due to the fire, and boardwalks have burnt, making the trails unsafe for hikers.

A significant concern remains the continued presence of hikers in areas that have been closed off due to fire damage.

Despite repeated warnings, individuals were encountered along the burnt trails on Monday morning.

The public is urged to strictly adhere to all trail closures for their safety and to allow firefighting teams to complete their operations unhindered.

Authorities are monitoring the situation closely and will provide further updates as necessary.

This developing news story is being updated and more details will be published shortly. Please refresh the page for the fullest version.

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