The Fire in Paardeberg on the slopes of Paardeberg mountain, is largely contained. It started on Friday morning.
The Cape Winelands District Municipality said in a statement, the fire was fuelled by a combination of warm weather, strong winds and dense vegetation, dating some 20 years ago.
Cape Fire Volunteers, said they have been working alongside agency partners, a crew of 9 firefighters for over 12 hours.
Picture: Christopher Cloete
“Disruptive rains”
The South African Weather Service (SAWS), has issued a Level 4 warning, predicting “disruptive rains” that may lead to flooding of roads, low-lying bridges in formal and informal settlements, in both the Eastern and Western Cape.
LandWater said in a brief, thunderstorms are moving Southwards from the Northern Cape to the “Grape Region.”
Picture of the overflowing Gariep dam, taken by the Great Karoo.
Fireworks bylaw
Most Municipalities have bylaws to regulate the use of fireworks this year. The City of Nocci, in Kimberley, asked residents to be considerate of the elderly and animals, by not using fireworks in urban areas.
The City of Johannesburg will fine residents up to R1000 for using fireworks near animals and the elderly.
Those permitting minors to use fireworks Wil be fined R1500.
Organizations such as the Wild Heart Wildlife Foundation and the SPCA, have raised their voice in support of animals
The Overstrand Municipality has totally prohibited the use of fireworks, firecrackers and sky lanterns.
Ladysmith flood update
Search and Rescue efforts continue in Ladysmith, after the floods on Christmas eve left 6 dead and another 11 missing. The number of those who lost their lives as increased to 21 according to a report y the South African Police Service yesterday.
Four people are still missing.
SAPS confirmed a Mobile Command Post will move further downstream today to continue searching.
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