Cederberg wildfire 80% contained, but thousands of hectares still at risk

A massive wildfire has been raging through the Cederberg Mountains, having scorched over 34,000 hectares since it ignited on Monday last week. 

While significant portions of the fire have been contained, it remains a serious threat, with several active fire lines still ablaze in steep and inaccessible terrain.

The flames have moved through Algeria, Driehoek, Kromrivier, Stadsaal and Truitjieskraal.

CapeNature said no lives have been lost and no homes have been destroyed.

Damage has been limited to a wooden cottage and a caravan at Driehoek, and no structures are currently under immediate threat.

The agency described the past week as “exceptionally demanding”.

It also praised the “remarkable co-operation and resilience shown by firefighting agencies, local communities and neighbours working together under challenging conditions".

"While large sections of the fire are contained, the fire is not yet fully contained, and multiple active fire lines remain, particularly in mountainous and inaccessible terrain," CapeNature said.

Ground crews remain active between Kromrivier, Gonnafontein, Stadsaal and Truitjieskraal, monitoring and protecting properties.

Firefighting is also ongoing around Maraisberg and between Citrusdal and Niewoudtspas,

The firefighters use direct firefighting, monitoring, and controlled burn-outs along firebreaks and jeep tracks to prevent further spread.

CapeNature, the West Coast District Municipality, and the Greater Cederberg Fire Protection Association are leading operations, with support from Working on Fire (WOF) and Volunteer Wildfire Services (VWS).

The Cape Winelands District Municipality has also joined the effort.

The agency stressed the importance of well-maintained access roads and firebreaks.

“Cleared defensible space around homes is critical, as dense vegetation and large trees near buildings increase risk, especially when fires jump into thick fuel close to structures,” it said.

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