The Cape Winelands District Municipality (CWDM) endured a demanding night as firefighting efforts continued across the district they said in a statement.
The fire in Lanquedoc remains contained, with ground teams from Stem in die Bos and CapeNature continuing monitoring and mopping-up operations throughout the day. A light drizzle was reported in the area, offering some relief but not enough to extinguish the remaining coals and stumps.
CWDM extended their thanks to local farmers and the Volunteer Wildfire Services for their ongoing support and assistance in managing the blaze.
READ: Lanquedoc blaze under control; Ashton fire remains challenging
“The situation in the Ashton and Montagu area remains serious. The fire continues to burn in a broken line along the mountain peaks of Kogmanskloof, between the two towns. CWDM and CapeNature remain on site, tackling the flames whenever the terrain allows,” according to the municipality
At present, the fire is moving through dense, old fynbos on CapeNature property. Due to the thickness and age of the vegetation, aerial firefighting efforts have proved ineffective, forcing crews to rely on manual methods. The area is both ecologically sensitive and difficult to access, requiring careful management to protect biodiversity and ensure safety.
With temperatures expected to exceed 35°C, authorities are concerned about possible flare-ups in previously contained areas. There is also a risk that hot stumps or dislodged rocks could roll downhill and ignite new fires in lower-lying regions.
CWDM and CapeNature, have urged farmers and landowners in the vicinity to allow firefighting vehicles and personnel access to their properties to assist with ongoing operations.
