Raging veld fires in Hermanus have destroyed six houses and damaged several others, News24 reported on Tuesday.
”We’ve had strong winds that got out of control,” explained an official in the Hermanus municipal office, who declined to give his name.
The fire began at about noon on the Rotary Way in Hermanus, a scenic route high above the town. It swept through much of Hermanus, destroying six houses and damaging several others.
”It has covered a huge area,” said the official — ”the whole mountain area from the CBD to Fernkloof side.”
Betty’s Bay was also affected by the blaze.
Residents of Northcliff, Hermanus Heights and Voëlklip were evacuated as a precautionary measure.
The fire was still raging between Hermanus Heights and Voëlklip on Tuesday afternoon.
Firefighters from Hermanus and surrounding regions, along with many volunteers, were battling the blaze.
”The public have helped us a lot,” said the official.
A service announcement on the municipality’s phone cautioned residents to wet their thatch roofs and fynbos gardens. — Sapa