The Western Cape’s aerial firefighting operations have already cost more than R2.4 million this fire season, with provincial resources deployed to support ground crews at 23 wildfire incidents across the region.
The costs represent a significant portion of the R17 million the Western Cape Government allocated for aerial firefighting support as part of a comprehensive summer preparedness plan launched on 8 December.
The investment in aerial firefighting comes after the demanding 2024/25 season that saw 11 149 veld and wildland fires recorded across the province, with fire suppression costs exceeding R20 million.
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Anton Bredell, Western Cape Minister for Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, said on Monday that provincial firefighting services are managing several wildfires simultaneously as challenging weather conditions persist.
“As hot and windy conditions persist, I urge the public to be extra cautious and responsible with any activity that could start a fire,” Bredell said. “A single careless moment can place entire communities and our firefighters at risk. Please report fires immediately, follow safety instructions, and help us prevent further incidents during this dangerous period.”
The province’s aerial firefighting resources, stationed in George, Bredasdorp, Stellenbosch and Porterville, have been primarily deployed to support ground crews in inaccessible and high-risk areas where conventional firefighting methods prove challenging.
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Preliminary estimates suggest several thousand hectares of agricultural, conservation and forestry land have been affected by wildfires so far this current season, though final figures are still being consolidated.
The majority of fires have been attributed to human causes, either through negligence or intent, with only a very small number caused by lightning during thunderstorm activity.
Bredell emphasised that most wildfires are preventable and that responsible behaviour can significantly reduce risks to lives, property, infrastructure and the natural environment.
Whilst no serious injuries or fatalities have been reported to date, several properties have been affected and damaged by the uncontrolled wildfires.
The Western Cape continues to experience a high number of wildfires, placing significant strain on firefighting resources across the province during what authorities describe as a dangerous period characterised by elevated fire risk conditions.
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