Fire in Aalwyndal, properties at risk

MOSSEL BAY NEWS - The fire on the farming land next to the N2 near KwaNonqaba has spread towards Aalwyndal, and is posing a threat to properties in the area.

The Mossel Bay Municipality has said that because of the risk, helicopters have been dispatched by the Garden Route District fire service.

It said the Mossel Bay fire, rescue and disaster management services are mobile on the Aalwyndal side and are coordinating with district teams already on scene.

The municipality has urged residents to remain alert and avoid affected areas to allow emergency services to operate safely.

It said further updates will be shared as the situation develops.

UPDATE @ 17:51

Road closures have been implemented in Rooikat Street and Skilpad Street. The municipality urged members of the public not to access the Aalwyndal area.

“Aerial firefighting operations are underway, with helicopters, a water bomber, and a spotter plane deployed under the command of the GRDM Fire Service. For safety reasons, the area cannot be accessed by the public while these operations are in progress.”

UPDATE @ 18:20

Road closures remain in place in Aalwyndal.

Mossel Bay and Garden Route fire services and volunteer services remain on scene where vegetation fires are being battled under challenging windy and dry conditions. Aerial firefighting operations are underway, supported by helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft.

The municipality strongly urged member of the public to avoid the area out of curiosity. “Accessing the fire zone poses a significant safety risk and hampers emergency operations. Only accredited volunteers are permitted to access the area.”

UPDATE @ 19:20

Residents of Island View, Vakansieplaas, and Aalwyndal are being evacuated following fires in the area. Read the latest here: MOSSEL BAY FIRE UPDATE: Island View, Vakansieplaas, Aalwyndal residents being evacuated

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