Cape Town – Table Mountain National Park (TMNP) has redeployed firefighting crews from the Cape of Good Hope main road to a fire above Skeleton Gorge along the Back Table within the park.
“Firefighting crews and aerial resources have been deployed at first light this morning, providing crucial aerial support to contain and manage the fire effectively above Skeleton Gorge,” South African National Parks (SANParks) said Sunday morning.
“Unfortunately, due to strong winds, aerial resources have stood down until it is deemed safe to conduct water bombing operations.”
On Saturday, (27 April 2024), TMNP reported several fires as a result of lightning strikes in multiple areas, namely Cecilia Forest, Silvermine, and the Cape Of Good Hope (Cape Point) main road, which has been contained.
“The swift response from TMNP’s NCC Environmental Services, along with Volunteer Wildfire Services, Working on Fire crews, and the City of Cape Town Fire and Rescue Services, played a crucial role in managing the situation,” SANParks said.
The following hiking areas have been affected:
- Cape of Good Hope – Hiking routes from Gifkommetjie to Circles Vlei and any trails originating from Olifantsbos, as well as the Sirkelvlei hiking trail and Link Road cycling route closed in the Cape Of Good Hope section have been affected and are closed to hikers until further notice. Circular Drive has also been closed as a precautionary measure.
- Back Table and Skeleton Gorge – Table Mountain – All footpaths leading to Back Table from Camps Bay and Hout Bay, Constantia Nek, Cecilia Forest, Kirstenbosch, and Orangekloof hiking trails have been closed
“Please be cautious when carrying out your activities above Silvermine,”‘ implored SANParks.
“Visitors are urged to exercise caution and cooperate with park authorities and firefighting teams during this time.”
In case of emergencies or sightings of new fires, please contact emergency services immediately at 086 110 6417 or the Newlands Dispatch at 021 689 7438.
SANParks said updates will be provided as the situation evolves.
“We appreciate the cooperation and understanding of the public during this challenging time.”
