Rising Fire Incidents Grip Table Mountain National Park in January 2024
In the first half of January 2024, Table Mountain National Park (TMNP) grappled with an alarming surge in fire incidents, responding to a total of 22 blazes during the month. Of particular concern is the emergence of a concerning pattern, with a majority of these fires igniting in the southern regions of TMNP, including Kalk Bay, Oceanview, and Redhill, as well as in the northern areas around Signal Hill and Pipe Track. With the current high temperatures and strong winds, these fires pose a significant risk to neighboring communities.
Swift and Effective Response by SANParks Firefighting Teams
Responding to the crisis, SANParks’ firefighting teams, consisting of contracted crews from Nature Conservation Cooperation (NCC) Wildfires, Working on Fire, Volunteer Wildfire Services, and Cape Town City Fire and Rescue Services, have demonstrated rapid response and effective containment of the fires.
Concerns about Malicious Intent
A troubling trend has emerged regarding the cause of these fires, with the majority attributed to deliberate malicious intent. Investigations conducted by Environmental Wildfire Services point to intentional actions as the trigger for three major fires.
- Kalk Bay Fire – Malicious Intent On January 17, 2024, a fire above Boyes Drive in Kalk Bay consumed approximately 73 hectares of veld. It was contained at 21h45 through the collaborative efforts of over 115 firefighters and aerial support. Crews continue to manage flare-ups in the area.
- Slangkop (Ocean View) Fire – Malicious Intent On January 18, 2024, a veld fire erupted in the Ocean View area, with preliminary reports suggesting the use of dry-cut alien vegetation, potentially ignited with a cigarette lighter.
- Pinehaven Fire – Malicious Intent Starting between Pinehaven and Da Gama at approximately 23h30 on January 18, 2024, the Pinehaven fire is strongly suspected to have been ignited with malicious intent. Investigations are ongoing.
Preparedness and Partnerships
SANParks’ dedicated crews, supported by NCC Wildfires and VWS, remain on standby throughout the season for immediate deployment. The strong partnership with the City of Cape Town and Provincial Disaster Management ensures a joint response to significant fires. Efforts are underway to increase patrols in the south, where many fires have occurred.
SANParks expresses gratitude to the public, the Checkers group for donations, and Spur Steak Ranch and Nando’s for sponsoring meals for firefighters. The public is urged to remain vigilant, reporting any fires or suspicious activity immediately. Valuable information, such as pin locations and visual evidence, aids investigators. The public is also reminded not to start fires, even in designated areas, during strong wind conditions. Fires and illegal activities can be reported to the emergency number on 086 110 021 or the Newlands Fire Base on 021 689 7438. Together, we can safeguard Table Mountain National Park from further devastation.
