Multiple wildfires swept through Upper Tokai and along the Constantiaberg slopes overnight, with emergency crews battling blazes believed to have been deliberately ignited.
The fires, which began late on Friday evening, prompted a rapid response from Table Mountain National Park (TMNP) Fire Department, supported by law enforcement and local volunteer units.
Residents in the area were first alerted at 00:30 via the Ward 71 community WhatsApp group, which confirmed that three separate fires had broken out and escalated to level 4 intensity.
Emergency line
“While these fires do not pose a threat to neighbouring communities, we urge residents to report any suspicious activities,” read the early morning alert.
The public has been asked to report information via the emergency line at 0861 106 417.
According to the local environmental watchdog Parkscape, firefighting teams faced multiple flare-ups throughout the night:
- 21:28 – Two new wildfires reported in Upper Tokai, triggering an immediate deployment of crews.
- 23:35 – Fires intensified, spreading between levels 3 and 4, with one forming a large circular burn area pushing northward.
- 04:18 – Flames reached the slope of the Constantiaberg, though calm winds aided containment efforts.
- 06:30 – The fireline extended from the gully above the Tokai Arboretum to halfway across the Constantiaberg slope.
As of Saturday morning, no injuries or structural damages have been reported.
Authorities continue to monitor the fires closely, while efforts are ongoing to fully contain remaining hotspots.
The possibility of arson is under active investigation, with law enforcement maintaining a presence in the area to deter further incidents.
Residents are strongly urged to avoid affected trails and forested zones while fire crews work to secure the area.
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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