Following the wildfires that ravaged the town of Knsyna, the Western Cape town’s water supply has been severely impacted by fire damages. The Knysna Municipality is urging people to conserve water and to keep up their water saving efforts. The fire has been contained and fire chief, Clinton Manuel says flare ups are being dealt with as soon as possible.

After the death of the family of three, a firefighter has died fighting the flames, while another is in hospital with 50% burn wounds. The official death toll in the Western Cape now stands at 10 people. A fund has been started to help assist the families of the firefighter who has passed away and other injured firefighters. Donate here. 

Over the last 48 hours, fires have been burning along the southern coast, with more than 400 firefighters from every town having responded to call over the last 24 hours.

The area has been declared a disaster area, with 10 000 residents evacuated amid the Knysna fires. Daylight has shown how much damage the fire has brought to some properties in the Knysna area.

Water bombs have been dropped by helicopters at the Knysna High School Sports field to bring hotspot areas under control.

Relief aid has been provided by many companies and organisations across South Africa in support of those affected by the fire.

KFM Drive secures R2.5 million for #KnysnaFire relief


With Saturday’s weather indicating a high Fire Risk Danger Index, the area is on high alert for possible flare-ups for the fire. Some people have already moved back into their homes, but don’t have any electricity. Around 300 telephone poles have been burned and destroyed, replacements are being sent in from other parts of the country.

The fires have moved on to Plettenberg Bay and have destroyed electrical lines, disconnecting power. Houses have been destroyed in Plettenberg Bay too.

The Knysna Municipality has sent out a list of emergency numbers for critical emergencies.

Fires are currently burning in Pezula, Elandskraal and Homptin Pass. Water bombing is progressing in Elandskraal and Buffels Bay to alleviate further spreading.

Photography Unsplash

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