UPDATE ON THE KEURBOOMS–SOETKRAAL FIRE IN THE TSITSIKAMMA AREA

By JP Louw
SANParks Head of Communications and Spokesperson

The Keurbooms–Soetkraal fire in the Tsitsikamma Section of the Garden Route National Park is currently being managed and remains contained.

The fire is expected to burn itself out against existing natural barriers, including previous fire scars with young veld, rivers, and areas of indigenous forest.

Based on close observations we can confirm that there are currently no immediate threats to property or safety.

A reconnaissance flight was conducted to assess the southern fire lines.

Observations indicate that the fire remains within manageable parameters and continues to burn towards young veld and other natural buffers.

One area of concern remains on the northern flank near Misgund, where teams on the ground are closely monitoring conditions.

Aerial resources will attempt access over the mountain to assist with suppression where required.

Operational coordination is being carried out by SANParks with MTO Forestry, the Garden Route District Municipality, Goukamma Municipality, Bitou Municipality, the Southern Cape Fire Protection Association, and private landowners, including farmers.

To date, an estimated area of more than 21 000 hectares has been affected. Both aerial and ground resources remain available, and with rainfall predicted in the coming days, conditions are expected to assist ongoing management efforts.

We thank all role players for their continued commitment and coordinated response. Further updates will be provided as the situation develops.