The fire that had been burning near Stanford since Friday caused a few tense moments as flames raged out of control, causing authorities to evacuate residents of Die Kop and farms near Wortelgat.
Firefighters and volunteers of Overstrand, Overberg District Municipality and Stellenbosch Fire and Rescue Services, in conjunction with officials from Cape Nature, Working on Fire, Greater Overberg Fire Protection Association, Cape Winelands Fire Protection Association, Overberg Wildfire Volunteers and Volunteer Wildfire Services worked hard to contain the fire near Die Kop and nearby poultry farms.
Various landowners also assisted in the firefighting efforts while the SA National Defence Force (SANDF) assisted in the evacuation operation.
Residents who were evacuated were able to return to their homes on Saturday evening.
Overstrand Mayor Dr Annelie Rabie reported on Saturday at 20:00 that the fire was “60% contained”. Additional fire trucks and aerial resources had to be activated with the arrival of ‘spike hour’.
“The spread of the fire over the R43 and defending ‘Die Kop’ and all four active lines were very challenging. We are grateful for all the support received, the continuous hard work and resilience demonstrated by the teams on the lines.”
Rabie, who visited Stanford on Saturday with Deputy Mayor Lindile Ntsabo, stated that no injuries and only minimal damage was reported.
“This was a very traumatic and trying time for all affected people – community members, firefighters and law enforcement supported by the SANDF.”
Rain that fell in the area on Sunday morning worked in the favour of firefighters, dousing the flames and smouldering embers.
Overstrand Municipality reported at 17:00 on Sunday all lines had been contained and several hot spots that had been found were extinguished.
“The cool, rainy conditions assisted in containing the fire’s spread. Fire resources will remain on scene until Monday evening at least,” a municipal statement said. “Approximately 1 600 ha have burnt. A detailed assessment will be conducted.”
Several areas, from De Kelders to Pearly Beach, were left without power as result of three electricity poles that had burnt. Telephone, internet and cellphone services were also affected by the outage.
Overstrand Municipality also requested residents to use water sparingly as pumping stations at the waste water treatment facilities were under pressure. A water truck was used to provide water at the Angling Club in Pearly Beach and at the Eluxolweni Community Hall.
Kyle Cookson, spokesperson for Eskom in the Western Cape, confirmed on Monday morning technicians were hard at work to restore the power supply.