Nearly 500 residents have been displaced after wind-fuelled fires tore through several informal settlements across Cape Town within the past week. The City’s Disaster Risk Management Centre (DRMC) has urged the public to remain cautious as dry, windy weather continues to heighten fire risks.
According to DRMC spokesperson Sonica Lategan, emergency services have been under immense strain as fire incidents rise. “With the prevailing windy conditions, we urge residents to be extra careful around open flames and flammable materials,” she said.
The most recent blaze in Phumlani Village near Eerste River destroyed 17 structures and displaced 77 people. Other affected areas include Overcome Heights, where 120 residents were impacted, Khayelitsha with 303 affected, and Witsands with 32 people displaced.
Humanitarian groups such as Gift of the Givers, Mustadafin Foundation, and SASSA are providing food, clothing, and blankets to affected families while officials continue damage assessments.
Lategan warned that rising temperatures this week could further increase the likelihood of fires and urged residents to report any signs of danger immediately to the City’s emergency line at 021 480 7700.