CAPE TOWN, South Africa โ Teams in helicopters worked tirelessly to douse large fires blazing on the slopes of Table Mountain in South Africa on Tuesday. Authorities are currently investigating the possibility of arson as the catalyst behind the fires.
The fires initially erupted on Friday, as reported by Table Mountain National Park. The park released a statement expressing their suspicion that three separate fires were started intentionally. Consequently, local police have detained an individual under the suspicion of arson.
As of now, the city of Cape Town has stated that although the fires are partly contained, the risk of new flare-ups remains a concern. The notorious coastal winds in the area often fuel wildfires, causing them to advance rapidly and unpredictably.
Thankfully, there have been no reports of injuries or damage to private homes, confirmed city official JP Smith. However, the fires have claimed four vehicles and a motorcycle in a parking area along with causing other vehicles to suffer damage.
In response to the fire threat, local authorities have shut down various roads and hiking trails. On Sunday, approximately 200 residents, including those living in nursing homes, had to be evacuated from their homes, though they have since been allowed to return.
Table Mountain is known for being prone to wildfires particularly during the hot and arid months from November through April. The last significant wildfire prior to the current ones occurred back in February.
Approximately 3,000 hectares (equivalent to 11 square miles) of vegetation have been affected and burned in the recent fires. Fortunately, these fires are located on the lesser-known back slopes of the mountain, sparing the iconic flat-topped part that prominently overlooks downtown Cape Town from being caught in the fireโs path.
A significant effort, involving around 250 firefighters, has been mobilized to combat the fires, as noted by the park. Progress was achieved overnight with the aid of thermal imaging drones, which assisted fire crews in determining the path the fires are projected to follow.