The Western Cape is entering the festive season under severe fire risk, with hot, dry and windy weather fuelling concerns across the province.
Authorities have increased the province’s fire season budget from R16 million to R19 million as crews continue to battle flare-ups in high-risk areas. The Cape Winelands and Overberg regions remain the most vulnerable, with several fires recently contained and mop-up operations now in progress.
Local Government MEC Anton Bredell said human behaviour remains the leading cause of wildfires, urging residents to exercise extreme caution.
“We do everything possible to keep our people and property safe,” he said, adding that the province’s fire services are on high alert as conditions worsen.