Fire of hell causes chaos

Inferno destroys homes, sends residents packing, closes roads

STRONG winds fanned a vegetation fire that gutted at least four residential properties on the mountainside of Gordon’s Bay. The fire started near Sir Lowry’s Pass at about 11am and stretched from the N2, Gordon’s Bay to Steenbras Dam and Rooi Els direction.

“The fire is being fanned by a very strong south-easterly wind. About 200 firefighters are assisting and 33 fire engines on scene with resources from the City of Cape Town, Bulk Water and Cape Nature and assisted by the Overberg municipality on the scene,” said City Fire and Rescue spokesperson Theo Layne.

He said no forced evacuations were ordered but residents voluntarily left their homes as the fire approached. Most had returned once they felt the danger had passed.

Julia Evans, manager of the Animal Welfare Society Helderberg in Gordon’s Bay, said the premises were damaged and all animals housed at their kennels in Mansfield Crescent evacuated.

“The animals are being accommodated by members of the public who have temporarily opened their homes to the animals. Some were taken by the EberVet pet clinic,” said Evans.

The City’s Disaster Risk Management department spokesperson, Charlotte Powell, said power supply to the Gordon’s Bay and Sir Lowry’s Village was disrupted as a result of carbon build-up on the transmission lines.

“Two electricity substations have been destroyed by fire.

“City of Cape Town Electricity Services and Eskom are working to restore power. The public is advised that there will be a sporadic break in transmission of electricity in the area and no restoration time is available,” said Powell.

Several major roads were closed due the veld fire and motorists were advised to use alternative routes. “N2 road closures are in both directions. Alternative routes to Gordon’s Bay are via the R44 to Kleinmond,” said Powell.

Johann Marais, from Wilderness Search and Rescue (Wsar), said firefighters were trying to reach the area; however, it was very dangerous.

“Helicopters cannot go into the area. The fire is totally out of control.

We are waiting for the City of Cape Town to give instructions. Our men are here ready and waiting,” Marais said.

The fire comes after lightning strikes last week caused a number of wildfires across the Eden District.

PICTURE: BRYAN MENNIE UP IN FLAMES: Four houses were reportedly destroyed in a fire stretching from the N2, Gordon’s Bay to Steenbras Dam and Rooi Els. At least 33 fire engines were being used to combat the blaze which was fanned by strong winds.