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9 January 2026
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Three firefighters injured in the Mossel Bay fire; residents evacuated, several structures and vehicles destroyed
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Three Mossel Bay Fire, Rescue and Disaster Management firefighters and one civilian were injured in a major vegetation fire in the Mossel Bay area resulting in residents being evacuated as well as several structures and vehicles being destroyed. The vegetation fire, fuelled by strong winds of up to 100km/h started on Monday, 5 January 2026 next to the N2 off ramp, to George with the Mossel Bay Fire, Rescue and Disaster Management Services responding. The N2 was closed for several hours from on Tuesday, 6 January 2026, between the Langeberg Mall off‑ramp and Dana Bay, direction Cape Town, due to heavy smoke and unsafe visibility conditions. Evacuations for residents in Island View, Vakansieplaas, and Aalwyndal were ordered on Tuesday, 6 January 2026. Crews from Mossel Bay, Garden Route District Municipality, Hessequa Municipality and George Municipality responded as well as support from Western Cape Metro Rescue, ER24, SAPS, Traffic, NSRI, EMS Chaplaincy, SPCA and several land owners and volunteer organisations bolstering efforts.
A Joint Operations Centre (JOC) was established in Mossel Bay to coordinate firefighting efforts, evacuation, logistics and communications. An onsite Incident Command Post (ICP) was located at the Mossel Bay Airfield, including a rehabilitation and refreshment area for fire crews and emergency workers.
The three firefighters sustained injuries and one was admitted to hospital for smoke inhalation. Multiple structures were lost in the fire. A drone with infrared capabilities was utilised to determine the extent of the fire and identify hotspots.
In a Facebook post, Mossel Bay Municipality said, “The implementation of aerial firefighting has proved invaluable during the past two days as fire crews work faced challenging conditions – strong to gale force winds and inaccessible terrain – in Aalwyndal, Island View and Vogelsang (Vakansieplaas). Aerial resources deployed included 2 helicopters, 1 waterbomber airplane and 1 spotter airplane, under command of the Garden Route District Municipality. Various water sources in the area surrounding the fire site were utilised – including swimming pools, dams and rivers.”
The Mossel Bay emergency response was a coordinated multi-agency effort. Alongside fire and rescue teams, disaster management, law enforcement, volunteer fire services, the National Sea Rescue Institute and community groups participated in relief and safety operations.
The community also played a role, with offers of support, shelter for displaced families and crowd-sourced relief initiatives emerging as residents rallied behind those impacted.
FRI will provide an updated article in the FRI Newsletter next week. Below follows the updates from the JOC.
Update by Mossel Bay Municipality: Aalwyndal, Island View, Vakansieplaas, , N2; 09 January 2026 @10h55
The first briefing of the day was held at the Joint Operations Centre at 07:00, 9 January 2026. This was followed by a briefing given to the Western Cape Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, Anton Bredell. The Minister joined the JOC meeting this morning, along with Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Executive Mayor Marais Kruger and Hessequa Executive Mayor, Grant Riddles. The following video is from the fire line on the western flank between Aalwyndal and Renosterbos this morning, 9 January 2026. Fire crews are still fully deployed and will taking advantage of the cooler weather and drop in wind potency today to further secure the fire line. All available water sources will be utilised today to create a wet line of several metres around the fire perimeter.
𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗠𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗮 𝗕𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗛𝗶𝗴𝗵𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗮𝗯𝗼𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗗𝘂𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗠𝗼𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗹 𝗕𝗮𝘆 𝗙𝗶𝗿𝗲 𝗢𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀
This morning, 9 January 2026, the Western Cape MEC for Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, MEC Anton Bredell, visited the Mossel Bay Joint Operations Centre (JOC), where he and his delegation were briefed on the firefighting operations conducted over the past weeks in Mossel Bay.
The briefing was led by Mossel Bay Fire Chief Joseph Johnson, who also serves as the joint Incident Commander, together with Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Fire Chief Deon Stoffels. Both provided a detailed overview of the firefighting operations, outlining key challenges, lessons learned, and the extensive collaboration that took place throughout the incident and yesterday’s actions. They highlighted how terrain, prevailing wind conditions, and accessibility significantly influenced firefighting strategies and operations.
Also in attendance were GRDM Executive Mayor Marais Kruger, Cllr Grant Riddles, Executive Mayor of Hessequa Municipality, Alderman Cliffie Bayman, Deputy Mayor of Mossel Bay Municipality, Cllr Leon van Dyk, Mayoral Committee Member for Community Safety and other key stakeholders.
A key highlight of the briefing was the strong working relationship between the various Garden Route municipalities, the private sector and the broader community. This included valuable support from neighbourhood watches, community safety forums and emergency medical services, all of whom played an important role in the response efforts.
In his closing remarks, MEC Bredell expressed his appreciation to all role players involved, not only the firefighters but everyone forming part of what he referred to as the “disaster family.” He encouraged leaders to document lessons learned and continue building on them, noting that preparedness is crucial as future disasters are inevitable.
Lastly, the future weather outlook, particularly the forecast of minimal rainfall, was highlighted as a concern. The future weather predictions and the scarcity of water in the Garden Route were also noted. As a result, a prolonged fire season is anticipated.
Update by Mossel Bay Municipality: Aalwyndal, Island View, Vakansieplaas, 08 January 2026 @22h35
The last briefing of the day was held at the Joint Operations Centre at 20:00, 8 January 2026. This footage gives an overview of flare ups after 14:00 today, when the wind potency picked up.
Fire status
• Areas threatened today, but fire stopped: Num Num, Sonskynvallei, Hartenbos Heuwels, Renosterbos.
• Less flare-ups in comparison to previous evening
• By the final briefing today, all running fire lines have been stopped and active mopping up operations continued
• Fire area: Approximately 23 square kilometres
• All flanks are covered.
• Wind direction and potency closely monitored.
• No teams are standing down.
• Maximum resources deployed.
• On site Incident Command Post (ICP) still located at the Mossel Bay Airfield, including the rehabilitation and refreshment area for fire crews and emergency workers.
• More than 70 firefighters on the ground
• No further structure or property loss has occurred since 6 January 2026.
• No evacuations took place during the past 36 hours.
• No further injuries were reported today.
• Firefighting efforts, including the deployment of aerial firefighting (2 helicopters, 1 spotter and 1 bomber) throughout the afternoon effectively secured vulnerable areas.
• Bulldozers were utilized to assist making fire breaks.
• Additional resources were dispatched, including support from Hessequa Municipality and George Municipality. This includes multiple water sources, including refilling with grey water from the regional wastewater works, additional water tankers, farmers associations from all over the greater Mossel Bay with water resources (among other, more than 13 bakkies with 1 000l water tanks).
Access: Municipal traffic and law enforcement officials are deployed and will implement access control as needed.
Update by Mossel Bay Municipality: Aalwyndal, Island View, Vakansieplaas, 08 January 2026 @20h00
Fire crews remain fully deployed in all fire affected and vulnerable areas – Aalwyndal, Island View, Vakansieplaas, Num Num, Sonskynvallei, Hartenbos Heuwels, Renosterbos. No down scaling of resources are taking place. During today’s briefings it was emphasized that the main focus points will be tending to any areas showing smouldering embers and hotspots, which was successfully implemented. From approximately 14:00 today, after the wind potency picked up, several flare-ups and fire spread were experienced. Firefighting efforts, including the deployment of aerial firefighting (2 helicopters, 1 spotter and 1 bomber) throughout the afternoon effectively secured these areas. Bulldozers were utilized to assist making fire breaks. Wind direction and potency is still creating challenges conditions. NO evacuations were necessitated in more than 24 hours. Throughout the course of the afternoon, additional resources have been dispatched. This includes multiple water sources, including refilling with grey water from the regional wastewater works, additional water tankers, farmers associations from all over the greater Mossel Bay with water resources. Additional firefighting resources have also been secured from Oudsthoorn, George and Hessequa Municipality.
Update by Mossel Bay Municipality: Aalwyndal, Island View, Vakansieplaas, 08 January 2026 @17h45
The wet line created with aerial firefighting and the efforts of firefighting crews have stopped the fire's approach in Hartenbos Heuwels. Traffic and law enforcement are implementing access control. Members of the public are urged to avoid the fire affected areas to allow fire crews and emergency vehicles to move around undeterred. All volunteers are thanked for their efforts and contribution in any manner to support fire crews - it is truly inspiring. More than 70 firefighters are deployed on the ground today.
Update by Mossel Bay Municipality: Aalwyndal, Island View, Vakansieplaas, 08 January 2026 @17h15
Wind conditions this afternoon have had an adverse effect on the containment of the fire. Fire crews have been deployed in Hartenbos Heuwels. Aerial resources are still being utilised throughout the afternoon. Additional water resources have been sent to the fire affected areas and George Municipality is also enroute to assist. Permission has been granted for additional fire breaks to be created in areas of concern to prevent fire spread. Residents are requested to remain vigilant, keep windows and doors closed. Members of the public are urged to avoid fire affected areas to allow fire crew and emergency workers to continue with their operations.
Update by Mossel Bay Municipality: Aalwyndal, Island View, Vakansieplaas, 08 January 2026 @11h00
The Joint Operations Centre, coordinating the collaborative multi-agency firefighting operations continue in Aalwyndal and surrounds, firefighting effort which started on 5 January 2026, held its first briefing conducted under Senior Manager Fire, Rescue and Disaster Management Service, Mossel Bay Joseph Johnston, for the day at 07:00, 7 January 2026.
Status
• Fire stop was called at 01:00 on 8 January 2026. This means the fire is under control, but not contained. Fire lines remain secured through the course of the night.
• Fire area: Approximately 18.9 square kilometres
• Main focus points today will be tending to any areas showing smouldering embers and hotspots to limit flare-ups.
• Wind direction and potency will be closely monitored due to the critical effect it may have on flare-ups and potential spread of the fire. Weather predictions indicate an increase in wind speed during the afternoon into the evening today and a drop in temperatures.
• No teams are standing down and maximum resources have been deployed.
• On site Incident Command Post (ICP) is still located at the Mossel Bay Airfield, including the rehabilitation and refreshment area for fire crews and emergency workers.
• EMS Chaplaincy remains at the ICP to man the rehabilitation and refreshment area.
• Focus is in strategic placement of vehicles and resources to ensure swift and immediate response in hotspot areas to curb flare-up.
• Vakansieplaas, where most of the structural damage was caused, remains a focus area, showing several hotspots.
• Accredited community volunteer fire support teams (NSRI, neighbourhood watch groups) as well as Working on Fire remain active in the fire site.
• No further structure or property loss has occurred since 6 January 2026.
• No evacuations took place since yesterday.
• No further injuries were reported since yesterday.
• Residents evacuated on 6 January 2026 have been allowed to return to their neighbourhoods and homes yesterday.
• Thus far 3 firefighters were injured, 1 was hospitalised for smoke inhalation and will be release today. Yesterday a civilian was injured in Vakansieplaas.
• Humanitarian support to affected families is facilitated by the Mossel Bay Municipality in collaboration with various benefactors.
• Department of Social Development is offering psycho-social support to affected families
Access: South African Police Service confirmed a strong presence. Municipal traffic and law enforcement officials are deployed and will implement access control as needed.
Update by Mossel Bay Municipality: Aalwyndal, Island View, Vakansieplaas, N2; 07 January 2026 @22h00
• The Joint Operations Centre, coordinating the collaborative firefighting effort which started on 5 January 2026, held its final debriefing for the day at 22:00 tonight, 7 January 2026.
• Active multi-agency firefighting continues in Aalwyndal and surrounds, involving volunteers (neighbourhood watch groups, NSRI), Working on Fire, Mossel Bay and Garden Route District, Hessequa and George Municipality fire crews.
• Flare-ups and spot fires are attended to. Wind direction and typography continues to present challenging conditions to fire crews.
• Chief Fire Officer, Garden Route District Fire Service, Deon Stoffels confirmed that resources have been well placed to strategically deal with flare-ups and spot fires
• At the time, no further injuries were reported.
• At the time, no structures were in danger due to the fire.
• South African Police Service, Lt Col Eddy Williams confirmed that no incidents relating to fire have been reported.
• Working on Fire confirmed that their crew are holding strong at the fire line towards the N2.
• Incident command, as well as the refreshment area managed by EMS Chaplaincy, is currently set up at the Mossel Bay airfield in Aalwyndal. Chief Fire Officer Daniel Dippenaar (Hessequa) has joined incident command at the fire site for the night shift.
• Marko Claassen, Superintendent (Tactical Response and By-Law Enforcement), confirmed the successful implementation of road closure and access control in the affected areas, as well as assisting with the safe, precautionary evacuation of 24 elderly residents and 9 nursing staff members from Adler’s Nest during the afternoon of 7 January 2026.
• Acting Director Community Safety, coordinating the humanitarian efforts for the Mossel Bay Municipality, Elize Nel confirmed aid offered, drop off points and procedures to assist affected families.
• Philip Mattheus, Deputy Chairman to the Garden Route District Community Police Forum Board confirmed that neighbourhood watch groups will stay the course to support any access control and firefighting efforts.
• The role players will reconvene at 07:00 on 8 January 2026, at the Joint Operations Centre for feedback, where after a fire update will follow. Any significant event or alerts will be communicated on the municipal platforms – as necessary.
“It is crucial that crews hold the fire line through the night," said Senior Manager Fire, Rescue and Disaster Management Services, Mossel Bay, Joseph Johnston.
Update by Mossel Bay Municipality: Aalwyndal, Island View, Vakansieplaas, N2; 07 January 2026 @17h00
• Active multi-agency firefighting continues in Aalwyndal and surrounds, involving volunteers, Working on Fire, Mossel Bay and Garden Route District fire crews.
• A feedback meeting was held at the Joint Operations Centre at 16:00 to share fire updates. Report back was done by Chief Fire Officer Deon Stoffels from Garden Route District Fire Services. CFO Stoffels reported at the time that the fire is not spreading and that mop up operations were underway in several areas. He added that a change in wind
• Aerial firefighting operations continued throughout the day under command of Garden Route District Municipality and was effectively utilised until 17:00.
• A grader and JCB, both volunteer services from Mossel Bay, assisted in creating fire breaks.
• Fire crews successfully moved into the gorges with hose lines to follow up on mop-up operations.
• Wind gusts, ever-changing wind direction, as well as inaccessible areas continued presenting challenges to firefighting crews causing flare ups and spot fires.
• Access control was implemented in Island View and road-users are requested to be mindful of traffic and law enforcement officials’ instructions.
• Klipheuwel Street in Aalwyndal was closed in both directions.
• Additional support crews from Hessequa and George Municipalities, as well as Working on Fire have been secured to support Mossel Bay and Garden Route District fire fighters, as well as volunteer crews in the fire site during the night shift.
• No further injuries have been reported.
• Several animals, both wildlife and domestic, have been taken to safety and for medical care. No serious injuries have been reported.
• Precautionary evacuations have been implemented in Aalwyndal where elderly residents and nursing staff were moved to the ATKV Hartenbos.
Update by Mossel Bay Municipality: Aalwyndal, Island View, Vakansieplaas, N2; 07 January 2026 @15h00
• Active multi-agency firefighting continues in Aalwyndal and surrounds, with crews attending to regular flare-ups.
• Resources are being placed strategically to manage flare-ups.
• Wind gusts and inaccessible terrain are complicating the containment of the fire.
• Aerial firefighting resources are still deployed strengthening containment efforts.
• Flare-ups have necessitated further evacuations in Aalwyndal.
• 1 injury (civilian – female minor) has been reported in Vakansieplaas.
• Access control may be implemented as necessary and road-users are requested to be mindful of traffic and law enforcement officials’ instructions.
• Additional resources volunteered: concrete mixers with articulated arms to aid firefighting operations; grader to assist in fire break implementation
Update by Mossel Bay Municipality: Aalwyndal, Island View, Vakansieplaas, N2; 07 January 2026 @12h00
• Active firefighting continues in Aalwyndal and surrounds, with crews attending to flare‑ups.
• The spread earlier today to Num Num (northeastern flank) has been contained.
• Other flanks of the fire is also contained, with active firefighting still underway to contain the northwestern flank (top of Aalwyndal).
• Crew are deployed, monitoring and managing flare-ups.
• Aerial firefighting resources deployed and resulting firefighting effort have been effective.
• At present, no structures are in danger due to the fire.
• The public is urged to be cautious and avoid the Aalwyndal area and allow those affected by the fire to deal with their loss in private.
• A dedicated bank account is in the process of being opened for donations, and details will be shared as soon as possible
Western Cape's Provincial Minister of Mobility, Isaac Seleko, alongside the Speaker of the Mossel Bay Municipal Council, Alderlady Venolea Fortuin, Executive Mayor Dirk Kotzé, Alderman Cliffie Bayman (Executive Deputy Mayor), Alderman Niklaas Booisen (Portfolio Chairperson Community Services) and Councillor Stefan Botha (Ward 7 - affected area) visited the Joint Operations Centre today, for a briefing on the status quo. They were address by Portfolio Chair for Community Safety, Councillor Leon van Dyk.
Update by Mossel Bay Municipality: Aalwyndal, Island View, Vakansieplaas, N2; 07 January 2026 @11h00
• Active firefighting continues in Aalwyndal and surrounds as fire crews attend to flare-ups.
• No structures are currently in danger due to the fire.
• Aerial resources deployed earlier this morning have been effective and are being extended under the command of the Garden Route District Municipality.
• Road closures and access control have been implemented to support emergency operations and ensure public safety.
• The public is urged to be cautious and avoid the Aalwyndal area.
• Provincial Traffic is on the scene at the N2 near KwaNonqaba, where a vegetation fire is affecting traffic flow and safety.
• The Municipality’s law enforcement teams are investigating reports of looting at houses in Vakansieplaas.
• Residents are encouraged to rely only on official updates and verified information as emergency teams continue their work.
• Department of Social Development has deployed psycho-social services to those affected due to the fire.
• A dedicated bank account is in the process of being opened for donations, and details will be shared as soon as possible.
Update by Mossel Bay Municipality: Aalwyndal, Island View, Vakansieplaas, N2; 07 January 2026 @ 08h45
All the relevant role-players involved in the incident management of the fire affecting a large area in Mossel Bay including Aalwyndal, Island View, Vakansieplaas, a farming area adjacent to the N2 and surrounds, gathered at the Joint Operations Centre this morning, 7 January 2026 at 06:00 to provide feedback on the current situation. Earlier briefings were held at 22:00 (6 January 2026) and 00:00 (7 January 2026). The fire originated in a farming area adjacent to the N2 on the right, in the direction of Cape Town, on 5 January 2025. Adverse weather conditions, including strong to gale force winds and inaccessible terrain contributed to its rapid spread to Aalwyndal, Island View and Vakansieplaas by 6 January 2026. Firefighting operations saw multiple fire crews including Mossel Bay, Garden Route, Hessequa, George and multiple volunteers involved in a coordinated collaborative effort. Aerial firefighting was implemented during the afternoon of 6 January 2026, under command of the Garden Route District Municipality.
Current fire status
• The fire has been contained on the northern lank (Aalwyndal); eastern flank (Island View) and the southern flank (N2).
• The N2, which was closed from the Langeberg off-ramp, Voorbaai (Mossel Bay) to Dana Bay just after 23:00 last night, was fully re-opened this morning, 7 January 2026 at 05:16.
• The fire is still active on the western flank – the farming area adjacent to Aalwyndal, presenting a hard-to-reach kloof area posing accessibility challenges.
• Crew from Mossel Bay Fire, Rescue and Disaster Management and Garden Route District Municipality are actively involved in firefighting operations.
• Incident command will take place for a location in the fire area.
• Prevailing weather conditions, especially wind will be closely monitored for the next operational period from 08:00 this morning to 18:00 tonight.
• No structures are currently in danger.
• It is estimated that the fire was spread over an area of more than 12 square kilometres.
Damage and injuries: Numbers cannot be confirmed until a full assessment of the damage has been done, but it has been confirmed that multiple structures, several vehicles, other infrastructure and property has sustained various levels of damage during the incident. No human loss of life has been reported. Three firefighters sustained injuries and one was admitted to hospital for smoke inhalation (all from Mossel Bay Fire, Rescue and Disaster Management.
Evacuation: Residents in affected areas were evacuated successfully last night, but are currently allowed to return to their residential areas. Access control was implemented, monitoring public movement for safety reasons. Road closure and access restriction was implemented and will be re-instated where necessary in active firefighting operations.
Status by Mossel Bay Municipality: Vegetation fires and evacuations; 07 January 2026 @ 00h40
A Joint Operations Centre remains active to coordinate firefighting, evacuation, and humanitarian support across affected areas. Mossel Bay Fire, Rescue and Disaster Management Services (MBFRDM), together with Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM), Hessequa Municipality, George Municipality, and volunteer services (NSRI, Volunteer Wildfire Services, Community Policing Forum and neighbourhood watch groups), continue active firefighting operations in Aalwyndal, Island View and Vakansieplaas and surrounds. All role-players involved in the incident including the acting Municipal Managers of both Mossel Bay Municipality, Annette Potgieter and Garden District Municipality, Rian Basson held a feedback meeting at 22:00 and reconvened at 00:00. The group will reconvene at 07:00 on 7 January 2026 where after an update will follow. Any significant emergency updates will be shared throughout the night – as necessary.
Status of fire: Fire is not yet contained – crews will remain actively busy on the fire lines through the night. A drone with infrared capabilities has been utilised to determine the extent of the fire and identify hotspots. The weather prediction, specifically wind prediction is being closely monitored.
Evacuations and humanitarian support: Affected residents in Island View, Vakansieplaas, and Aalwyndal have been safely evacuated. Evacuations will continue as necessary. Humanitarian support, specifically accommodation is being coordinated through the JOC. Many private residents, guesthouses, the ATKV Hartenbos schools and other have offered accommodation to those affected by the fire. The Municipality extends heartfelt thanks to residents for the overwhelming offers of accommodation and assistance. Most evacuees are safely staying with friends or family, and additional requests are being coordinated through the JOC. Your generosity reflects the strength and unity of Mossel Bay.
Injuries: To date, two firefighters have sustained injuries during firefighting operations.
Property: Although numbers are currently not confirmed, multiple structures have been damaged during the incident.
Additional resources and support: Fire crews on site – Mossel Bay, Garden Route, Hessequa and George. Other support on site: South African Police Service; Metro EMS; private ambulance services; SPCA; EMS Chaplaincy; WOF–Kishugu JV; Gift of the Givers; and private individuals. Multiple water trucks have been deployed – from departments within the Mossel Bay Municipality, as well as private individuals who volunteered assistance. Aerial firefighting support (helicopters and fixed‑wing aircraft) was withdrawn at approximately 19:00, due to low light and strong winds.
Update by Mossel Bay Municipality: Fire, evacuation and traffic; 06 January 2026 @ 22h02
A Joint Operations Centre remains active to coordinate firefighting, evacuation, and humanitarian support across affected areas. Fire crews from Mossel Bay Fire, Rescue and Disaster Management Services (MBFRDM), Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM), Hessequa and George Municipalities, and volunteer services are working under extremely challenging conditions due to strong winds and limited access. Role-players including the acting Municipal Managers of both Mossel Bay Municipality, Annette Potgieter and Garden District Municipality, Rian Basson are currently meeting at the JOC to share information and give feedback.
Wildfire alert by Garden Route District Municipality: N2 and Mossel Bay 06 January 2026 @ 20h00
The fire is currently out of control, and several structures have been lost. Strong winds are overwhelming firefighting efforts, significantly hampering containment operations. Road closures remain in place on Rooikat Street and Skilpad Street, Aalwyndal, due to active firefighting operations. Evacuations are underway for residents in Island View, Vakansieplaas, and Aalwyndal. The Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) has requested additional support from Hessequa and George Municipalities. Fire crews remain actively engaged in suppression and structure protection efforts.
The public is urged to remain calm and strictly follow instructions from emergency personnel. Please note: No donations may be delivered directly to the fire scene. Donations must be taken to the Mossel Bay Fire Station, located at the corner of Schoeman Street and Louis Fourie Road.
Update by Mossel Bay Municipality: Vegetation fires- Klein Brak/Hartenbos and N2 farming area; 06 January 2026 @ 10h02
In anticipation of predicted wind conditions for today, 6 January 2026 Mossel Bay Fire, Rescue and Disaster Management Services (MBFRDM) has strategically placed staff at key sites to ensure rapid response and continued safety monitoring.
Site 1: Crews have been engaged in firefighting operations since 3 January, when the fire broke out near the railway line between Hartenbos and Klein Brak River. Crews remain on scene to monitor and address any hotspots. No structures are in danger.
Site 2: Crews responded to a large vegetation fire next to the N2 off-ramp to George yesterday afternoon, 6 January 2026. The incident was escalated to the Garden Route District Municipality Fire Service. The site was handed over yesterday afternoon just after 14:00. No structures are in danger.
Alert by Mossel Bay Municipality: Vegetation fire N2; 05 January 2026 @ 13h50
Mossel Bay Fire, Rescue and Disaster Management Services responded to a large vegetation fire next to the N2 off ramp, to George. The incident has been escalated to the relevant fire service of Garden Route District Municipality. The local crew is currently assisting until Garden Route District Municipality fire Service arrives on scene. No structures are in danger, nor is there a smoke hazard on the N2.
Some more videos:
https://www.facebook.com/reel/1637908117384203
https://www.facebook.com/reel/901132205755163
https://www.facebook.com/reel/1806044360071237
https://www.facebook.com/reel/1663798281254518
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?ref=saved&v=1556163445528000
https://www.facebook.com/reel/1556836015750972
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?ref=saved&v=2105502729856455
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?ref=saved&v=1500165007750173
Sources: Garden Route District Municipality, Mossel Bay Municipality, SABC News Western Cape
A Joint Operations Centre (JOC) was established in Mossel Bay to coordinate firefighting efforts, evacuation, logistics and communications. An onsite Incident Command Post (ICP) was located at the Mossel Bay Airfield, including a rehabilitation and refreshment area for fire crews and emergency workers.
The three firefighters sustained injuries and one was admitted to hospital for smoke inhalation. Multiple structures were lost in the fire. A drone with infrared capabilities was utilised to determine the extent of the fire and identify hotspots.
In a Facebook post, Mossel Bay Municipality said, “The implementation of aerial firefighting has proved invaluable during the past two days as fire crews work faced challenging conditions – strong to gale force winds and inaccessible terrain – in Aalwyndal, Island View and Vogelsang (Vakansieplaas). Aerial resources deployed included 2 helicopters, 1 waterbomber airplane and 1 spotter airplane, under command of the Garden Route District Municipality. Various water sources in the area surrounding the fire site were utilised – including swimming pools, dams and rivers.”
The Mossel Bay emergency response was a coordinated multi-agency effort. Alongside fire and rescue teams, disaster management, law enforcement, volunteer fire services, the National Sea Rescue Institute and community groups participated in relief and safety operations.
The community also played a role, with offers of support, shelter for displaced families and crowd-sourced relief initiatives emerging as residents rallied behind those impacted.
FRI will provide an updated article in the FRI Newsletter next week. Below follows the updates from the JOC.
Update by Mossel Bay Municipality: Aalwyndal, Island View, Vakansieplaas, , N2; 09 January 2026 @10h55
The first briefing of the day was held at the Joint Operations Centre at 07:00, 9 January 2026. This was followed by a briefing given to the Western Cape Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, Anton Bredell. The Minister joined the JOC meeting this morning, along with Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Executive Mayor Marais Kruger and Hessequa Executive Mayor, Grant Riddles. The following video is from the fire line on the western flank between Aalwyndal and Renosterbos this morning, 9 January 2026. Fire crews are still fully deployed and will taking advantage of the cooler weather and drop in wind potency today to further secure the fire line. All available water sources will be utilised today to create a wet line of several metres around the fire perimeter.
𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗠𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗮 𝗕𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗛𝗶𝗴𝗵𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗮𝗯𝗼𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗗𝘂𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗠𝗼𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗹 𝗕𝗮𝘆 𝗙𝗶𝗿𝗲 𝗢𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀
This morning, 9 January 2026, the Western Cape MEC for Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, MEC Anton Bredell, visited the Mossel Bay Joint Operations Centre (JOC), where he and his delegation were briefed on the firefighting operations conducted over the past weeks in Mossel Bay.
The briefing was led by Mossel Bay Fire Chief Joseph Johnson, who also serves as the joint Incident Commander, together with Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Fire Chief Deon Stoffels. Both provided a detailed overview of the firefighting operations, outlining key challenges, lessons learned, and the extensive collaboration that took place throughout the incident and yesterday’s actions. They highlighted how terrain, prevailing wind conditions, and accessibility significantly influenced firefighting strategies and operations.
Also in attendance were GRDM Executive Mayor Marais Kruger, Cllr Grant Riddles, Executive Mayor of Hessequa Municipality, Alderman Cliffie Bayman, Deputy Mayor of Mossel Bay Municipality, Cllr Leon van Dyk, Mayoral Committee Member for Community Safety and other key stakeholders.
A key highlight of the briefing was the strong working relationship between the various Garden Route municipalities, the private sector and the broader community. This included valuable support from neighbourhood watches, community safety forums and emergency medical services, all of whom played an important role in the response efforts.
In his closing remarks, MEC Bredell expressed his appreciation to all role players involved, not only the firefighters but everyone forming part of what he referred to as the “disaster family.” He encouraged leaders to document lessons learned and continue building on them, noting that preparedness is crucial as future disasters are inevitable.
Lastly, the future weather outlook, particularly the forecast of minimal rainfall, was highlighted as a concern. The future weather predictions and the scarcity of water in the Garden Route were also noted. As a result, a prolonged fire season is anticipated.
Update by Mossel Bay Municipality: Aalwyndal, Island View, Vakansieplaas, 08 January 2026 @22h35
The last briefing of the day was held at the Joint Operations Centre at 20:00, 8 January 2026. This footage gives an overview of flare ups after 14:00 today, when the wind potency picked up.
Fire status
• Areas threatened today, but fire stopped: Num Num, Sonskynvallei, Hartenbos Heuwels, Renosterbos.
• Less flare-ups in comparison to previous evening
• By the final briefing today, all running fire lines have been stopped and active mopping up operations continued
• Fire area: Approximately 23 square kilometres
• All flanks are covered.
• Wind direction and potency closely monitored.
• No teams are standing down.
• Maximum resources deployed.
• On site Incident Command Post (ICP) still located at the Mossel Bay Airfield, including the rehabilitation and refreshment area for fire crews and emergency workers.
• More than 70 firefighters on the ground
• No further structure or property loss has occurred since 6 January 2026.
• No evacuations took place during the past 36 hours.
• No further injuries were reported today.
• Firefighting efforts, including the deployment of aerial firefighting (2 helicopters, 1 spotter and 1 bomber) throughout the afternoon effectively secured vulnerable areas.
• Bulldozers were utilized to assist making fire breaks.
• Additional resources were dispatched, including support from Hessequa Municipality and George Municipality. This includes multiple water sources, including refilling with grey water from the regional wastewater works, additional water tankers, farmers associations from all over the greater Mossel Bay with water resources (among other, more than 13 bakkies with 1 000l water tanks).
Access: Municipal traffic and law enforcement officials are deployed and will implement access control as needed.
Update by Mossel Bay Municipality: Aalwyndal, Island View, Vakansieplaas, 08 January 2026 @20h00
Fire crews remain fully deployed in all fire affected and vulnerable areas – Aalwyndal, Island View, Vakansieplaas, Num Num, Sonskynvallei, Hartenbos Heuwels, Renosterbos. No down scaling of resources are taking place. During today’s briefings it was emphasized that the main focus points will be tending to any areas showing smouldering embers and hotspots, which was successfully implemented. From approximately 14:00 today, after the wind potency picked up, several flare-ups and fire spread were experienced. Firefighting efforts, including the deployment of aerial firefighting (2 helicopters, 1 spotter and 1 bomber) throughout the afternoon effectively secured these areas. Bulldozers were utilized to assist making fire breaks. Wind direction and potency is still creating challenges conditions. NO evacuations were necessitated in more than 24 hours. Throughout the course of the afternoon, additional resources have been dispatched. This includes multiple water sources, including refilling with grey water from the regional wastewater works, additional water tankers, farmers associations from all over the greater Mossel Bay with water resources. Additional firefighting resources have also been secured from Oudsthoorn, George and Hessequa Municipality.
Update by Mossel Bay Municipality: Aalwyndal, Island View, Vakansieplaas, 08 January 2026 @17h45
The wet line created with aerial firefighting and the efforts of firefighting crews have stopped the fire's approach in Hartenbos Heuwels. Traffic and law enforcement are implementing access control. Members of the public are urged to avoid the fire affected areas to allow fire crews and emergency vehicles to move around undeterred. All volunteers are thanked for their efforts and contribution in any manner to support fire crews - it is truly inspiring. More than 70 firefighters are deployed on the ground today.
Update by Mossel Bay Municipality: Aalwyndal, Island View, Vakansieplaas, 08 January 2026 @17h15
Wind conditions this afternoon have had an adverse effect on the containment of the fire. Fire crews have been deployed in Hartenbos Heuwels. Aerial resources are still being utilised throughout the afternoon. Additional water resources have been sent to the fire affected areas and George Municipality is also enroute to assist. Permission has been granted for additional fire breaks to be created in areas of concern to prevent fire spread. Residents are requested to remain vigilant, keep windows and doors closed. Members of the public are urged to avoid fire affected areas to allow fire crew and emergency workers to continue with their operations.
Update by Mossel Bay Municipality: Aalwyndal, Island View, Vakansieplaas, 08 January 2026 @11h00
The Joint Operations Centre, coordinating the collaborative multi-agency firefighting operations continue in Aalwyndal and surrounds, firefighting effort which started on 5 January 2026, held its first briefing conducted under Senior Manager Fire, Rescue and Disaster Management Service, Mossel Bay Joseph Johnston, for the day at 07:00, 7 January 2026.
Status
• Fire stop was called at 01:00 on 8 January 2026. This means the fire is under control, but not contained. Fire lines remain secured through the course of the night.
• Fire area: Approximately 18.9 square kilometres
• Main focus points today will be tending to any areas showing smouldering embers and hotspots to limit flare-ups.
• Wind direction and potency will be closely monitored due to the critical effect it may have on flare-ups and potential spread of the fire. Weather predictions indicate an increase in wind speed during the afternoon into the evening today and a drop in temperatures.
• No teams are standing down and maximum resources have been deployed.
• On site Incident Command Post (ICP) is still located at the Mossel Bay Airfield, including the rehabilitation and refreshment area for fire crews and emergency workers.
• EMS Chaplaincy remains at the ICP to man the rehabilitation and refreshment area.
• Focus is in strategic placement of vehicles and resources to ensure swift and immediate response in hotspot areas to curb flare-up.
• Vakansieplaas, where most of the structural damage was caused, remains a focus area, showing several hotspots.
• Accredited community volunteer fire support teams (NSRI, neighbourhood watch groups) as well as Working on Fire remain active in the fire site.
• No further structure or property loss has occurred since 6 January 2026.
• No evacuations took place since yesterday.
• No further injuries were reported since yesterday.
• Residents evacuated on 6 January 2026 have been allowed to return to their neighbourhoods and homes yesterday.
• Thus far 3 firefighters were injured, 1 was hospitalised for smoke inhalation and will be release today. Yesterday a civilian was injured in Vakansieplaas.
• Humanitarian support to affected families is facilitated by the Mossel Bay Municipality in collaboration with various benefactors.
• Department of Social Development is offering psycho-social support to affected families
Access: South African Police Service confirmed a strong presence. Municipal traffic and law enforcement officials are deployed and will implement access control as needed.
Update by Mossel Bay Municipality: Aalwyndal, Island View, Vakansieplaas, N2; 07 January 2026 @22h00
• The Joint Operations Centre, coordinating the collaborative firefighting effort which started on 5 January 2026, held its final debriefing for the day at 22:00 tonight, 7 January 2026.
• Active multi-agency firefighting continues in Aalwyndal and surrounds, involving volunteers (neighbourhood watch groups, NSRI), Working on Fire, Mossel Bay and Garden Route District, Hessequa and George Municipality fire crews.
• Flare-ups and spot fires are attended to. Wind direction and typography continues to present challenging conditions to fire crews.
• Chief Fire Officer, Garden Route District Fire Service, Deon Stoffels confirmed that resources have been well placed to strategically deal with flare-ups and spot fires
• At the time, no further injuries were reported.
• At the time, no structures were in danger due to the fire.
• South African Police Service, Lt Col Eddy Williams confirmed that no incidents relating to fire have been reported.
• Working on Fire confirmed that their crew are holding strong at the fire line towards the N2.
• Incident command, as well as the refreshment area managed by EMS Chaplaincy, is currently set up at the Mossel Bay airfield in Aalwyndal. Chief Fire Officer Daniel Dippenaar (Hessequa) has joined incident command at the fire site for the night shift.
• Marko Claassen, Superintendent (Tactical Response and By-Law Enforcement), confirmed the successful implementation of road closure and access control in the affected areas, as well as assisting with the safe, precautionary evacuation of 24 elderly residents and 9 nursing staff members from Adler’s Nest during the afternoon of 7 January 2026.
• Acting Director Community Safety, coordinating the humanitarian efforts for the Mossel Bay Municipality, Elize Nel confirmed aid offered, drop off points and procedures to assist affected families.
• Philip Mattheus, Deputy Chairman to the Garden Route District Community Police Forum Board confirmed that neighbourhood watch groups will stay the course to support any access control and firefighting efforts.
• The role players will reconvene at 07:00 on 8 January 2026, at the Joint Operations Centre for feedback, where after a fire update will follow. Any significant event or alerts will be communicated on the municipal platforms – as necessary.
“It is crucial that crews hold the fire line through the night," said Senior Manager Fire, Rescue and Disaster Management Services, Mossel Bay, Joseph Johnston.
Update by Mossel Bay Municipality: Aalwyndal, Island View, Vakansieplaas, N2; 07 January 2026 @17h00
• Active multi-agency firefighting continues in Aalwyndal and surrounds, involving volunteers, Working on Fire, Mossel Bay and Garden Route District fire crews.
• A feedback meeting was held at the Joint Operations Centre at 16:00 to share fire updates. Report back was done by Chief Fire Officer Deon Stoffels from Garden Route District Fire Services. CFO Stoffels reported at the time that the fire is not spreading and that mop up operations were underway in several areas. He added that a change in wind
• Aerial firefighting operations continued throughout the day under command of Garden Route District Municipality and was effectively utilised until 17:00.
• A grader and JCB, both volunteer services from Mossel Bay, assisted in creating fire breaks.
• Fire crews successfully moved into the gorges with hose lines to follow up on mop-up operations.
• Wind gusts, ever-changing wind direction, as well as inaccessible areas continued presenting challenges to firefighting crews causing flare ups and spot fires.
• Access control was implemented in Island View and road-users are requested to be mindful of traffic and law enforcement officials’ instructions.
• Klipheuwel Street in Aalwyndal was closed in both directions.
• Additional support crews from Hessequa and George Municipalities, as well as Working on Fire have been secured to support Mossel Bay and Garden Route District fire fighters, as well as volunteer crews in the fire site during the night shift.
• No further injuries have been reported.
• Several animals, both wildlife and domestic, have been taken to safety and for medical care. No serious injuries have been reported.
• Precautionary evacuations have been implemented in Aalwyndal where elderly residents and nursing staff were moved to the ATKV Hartenbos.
Update by Mossel Bay Municipality: Aalwyndal, Island View, Vakansieplaas, N2; 07 January 2026 @15h00
• Active multi-agency firefighting continues in Aalwyndal and surrounds, with crews attending to regular flare-ups.
• Resources are being placed strategically to manage flare-ups.
• Wind gusts and inaccessible terrain are complicating the containment of the fire.
• Aerial firefighting resources are still deployed strengthening containment efforts.
• Flare-ups have necessitated further evacuations in Aalwyndal.
• 1 injury (civilian – female minor) has been reported in Vakansieplaas.
• Access control may be implemented as necessary and road-users are requested to be mindful of traffic and law enforcement officials’ instructions.
• Additional resources volunteered: concrete mixers with articulated arms to aid firefighting operations; grader to assist in fire break implementation
Update by Mossel Bay Municipality: Aalwyndal, Island View, Vakansieplaas, N2; 07 January 2026 @12h00
• Active firefighting continues in Aalwyndal and surrounds, with crews attending to flare‑ups.
• The spread earlier today to Num Num (northeastern flank) has been contained.
• Other flanks of the fire is also contained, with active firefighting still underway to contain the northwestern flank (top of Aalwyndal).
• Crew are deployed, monitoring and managing flare-ups.
• Aerial firefighting resources deployed and resulting firefighting effort have been effective.
• At present, no structures are in danger due to the fire.
• The public is urged to be cautious and avoid the Aalwyndal area and allow those affected by the fire to deal with their loss in private.
• A dedicated bank account is in the process of being opened for donations, and details will be shared as soon as possible
Western Cape's Provincial Minister of Mobility, Isaac Seleko, alongside the Speaker of the Mossel Bay Municipal Council, Alderlady Venolea Fortuin, Executive Mayor Dirk Kotzé, Alderman Cliffie Bayman (Executive Deputy Mayor), Alderman Niklaas Booisen (Portfolio Chairperson Community Services) and Councillor Stefan Botha (Ward 7 - affected area) visited the Joint Operations Centre today, for a briefing on the status quo. They were address by Portfolio Chair for Community Safety, Councillor Leon van Dyk.
Update by Mossel Bay Municipality: Aalwyndal, Island View, Vakansieplaas, N2; 07 January 2026 @11h00
• Active firefighting continues in Aalwyndal and surrounds as fire crews attend to flare-ups.
• No structures are currently in danger due to the fire.
• Aerial resources deployed earlier this morning have been effective and are being extended under the command of the Garden Route District Municipality.
• Road closures and access control have been implemented to support emergency operations and ensure public safety.
• The public is urged to be cautious and avoid the Aalwyndal area.
• Provincial Traffic is on the scene at the N2 near KwaNonqaba, where a vegetation fire is affecting traffic flow and safety.
• The Municipality’s law enforcement teams are investigating reports of looting at houses in Vakansieplaas.
• Residents are encouraged to rely only on official updates and verified information as emergency teams continue their work.
• Department of Social Development has deployed psycho-social services to those affected due to the fire.
• A dedicated bank account is in the process of being opened for donations, and details will be shared as soon as possible.
Update by Mossel Bay Municipality: Aalwyndal, Island View, Vakansieplaas, N2; 07 January 2026 @ 08h45
All the relevant role-players involved in the incident management of the fire affecting a large area in Mossel Bay including Aalwyndal, Island View, Vakansieplaas, a farming area adjacent to the N2 and surrounds, gathered at the Joint Operations Centre this morning, 7 January 2026 at 06:00 to provide feedback on the current situation. Earlier briefings were held at 22:00 (6 January 2026) and 00:00 (7 January 2026). The fire originated in a farming area adjacent to the N2 on the right, in the direction of Cape Town, on 5 January 2025. Adverse weather conditions, including strong to gale force winds and inaccessible terrain contributed to its rapid spread to Aalwyndal, Island View and Vakansieplaas by 6 January 2026. Firefighting operations saw multiple fire crews including Mossel Bay, Garden Route, Hessequa, George and multiple volunteers involved in a coordinated collaborative effort. Aerial firefighting was implemented during the afternoon of 6 January 2026, under command of the Garden Route District Municipality.
Current fire status
• The fire has been contained on the northern lank (Aalwyndal); eastern flank (Island View) and the southern flank (N2).
• The N2, which was closed from the Langeberg off-ramp, Voorbaai (Mossel Bay) to Dana Bay just after 23:00 last night, was fully re-opened this morning, 7 January 2026 at 05:16.
• The fire is still active on the western flank – the farming area adjacent to Aalwyndal, presenting a hard-to-reach kloof area posing accessibility challenges.
• Crew from Mossel Bay Fire, Rescue and Disaster Management and Garden Route District Municipality are actively involved in firefighting operations.
• Incident command will take place for a location in the fire area.
• Prevailing weather conditions, especially wind will be closely monitored for the next operational period from 08:00 this morning to 18:00 tonight.
• No structures are currently in danger.
• It is estimated that the fire was spread over an area of more than 12 square kilometres.
Damage and injuries: Numbers cannot be confirmed until a full assessment of the damage has been done, but it has been confirmed that multiple structures, several vehicles, other infrastructure and property has sustained various levels of damage during the incident. No human loss of life has been reported. Three firefighters sustained injuries and one was admitted to hospital for smoke inhalation (all from Mossel Bay Fire, Rescue and Disaster Management.
Evacuation: Residents in affected areas were evacuated successfully last night, but are currently allowed to return to their residential areas. Access control was implemented, monitoring public movement for safety reasons. Road closure and access restriction was implemented and will be re-instated where necessary in active firefighting operations.
Status by Mossel Bay Municipality: Vegetation fires and evacuations; 07 January 2026 @ 00h40
A Joint Operations Centre remains active to coordinate firefighting, evacuation, and humanitarian support across affected areas. Mossel Bay Fire, Rescue and Disaster Management Services (MBFRDM), together with Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM), Hessequa Municipality, George Municipality, and volunteer services (NSRI, Volunteer Wildfire Services, Community Policing Forum and neighbourhood watch groups), continue active firefighting operations in Aalwyndal, Island View and Vakansieplaas and surrounds. All role-players involved in the incident including the acting Municipal Managers of both Mossel Bay Municipality, Annette Potgieter and Garden District Municipality, Rian Basson held a feedback meeting at 22:00 and reconvened at 00:00. The group will reconvene at 07:00 on 7 January 2026 where after an update will follow. Any significant emergency updates will be shared throughout the night – as necessary.
Status of fire: Fire is not yet contained – crews will remain actively busy on the fire lines through the night. A drone with infrared capabilities has been utilised to determine the extent of the fire and identify hotspots. The weather prediction, specifically wind prediction is being closely monitored.
Evacuations and humanitarian support: Affected residents in Island View, Vakansieplaas, and Aalwyndal have been safely evacuated. Evacuations will continue as necessary. Humanitarian support, specifically accommodation is being coordinated through the JOC. Many private residents, guesthouses, the ATKV Hartenbos schools and other have offered accommodation to those affected by the fire. The Municipality extends heartfelt thanks to residents for the overwhelming offers of accommodation and assistance. Most evacuees are safely staying with friends or family, and additional requests are being coordinated through the JOC. Your generosity reflects the strength and unity of Mossel Bay.
Injuries: To date, two firefighters have sustained injuries during firefighting operations.
Property: Although numbers are currently not confirmed, multiple structures have been damaged during the incident.
Additional resources and support: Fire crews on site – Mossel Bay, Garden Route, Hessequa and George. Other support on site: South African Police Service; Metro EMS; private ambulance services; SPCA; EMS Chaplaincy; WOF–Kishugu JV; Gift of the Givers; and private individuals. Multiple water trucks have been deployed – from departments within the Mossel Bay Municipality, as well as private individuals who volunteered assistance. Aerial firefighting support (helicopters and fixed‑wing aircraft) was withdrawn at approximately 19:00, due to low light and strong winds.
Update by Mossel Bay Municipality: Fire, evacuation and traffic; 06 January 2026 @ 22h02
A Joint Operations Centre remains active to coordinate firefighting, evacuation, and humanitarian support across affected areas. Fire crews from Mossel Bay Fire, Rescue and Disaster Management Services (MBFRDM), Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM), Hessequa and George Municipalities, and volunteer services are working under extremely challenging conditions due to strong winds and limited access. Role-players including the acting Municipal Managers of both Mossel Bay Municipality, Annette Potgieter and Garden District Municipality, Rian Basson are currently meeting at the JOC to share information and give feedback.
Wildfire alert by Garden Route District Municipality: N2 and Mossel Bay 06 January 2026 @ 20h00
The fire is currently out of control, and several structures have been lost. Strong winds are overwhelming firefighting efforts, significantly hampering containment operations. Road closures remain in place on Rooikat Street and Skilpad Street, Aalwyndal, due to active firefighting operations. Evacuations are underway for residents in Island View, Vakansieplaas, and Aalwyndal. The Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) has requested additional support from Hessequa and George Municipalities. Fire crews remain actively engaged in suppression and structure protection efforts.
The public is urged to remain calm and strictly follow instructions from emergency personnel. Please note: No donations may be delivered directly to the fire scene. Donations must be taken to the Mossel Bay Fire Station, located at the corner of Schoeman Street and Louis Fourie Road.
Update by Mossel Bay Municipality: Vegetation fires- Klein Brak/Hartenbos and N2 farming area; 06 January 2026 @ 10h02
In anticipation of predicted wind conditions for today, 6 January 2026 Mossel Bay Fire, Rescue and Disaster Management Services (MBFRDM) has strategically placed staff at key sites to ensure rapid response and continued safety monitoring.
Site 1: Crews have been engaged in firefighting operations since 3 January, when the fire broke out near the railway line between Hartenbos and Klein Brak River. Crews remain on scene to monitor and address any hotspots. No structures are in danger.
Site 2: Crews responded to a large vegetation fire next to the N2 off-ramp to George yesterday afternoon, 6 January 2026. The incident was escalated to the Garden Route District Municipality Fire Service. The site was handed over yesterday afternoon just after 14:00. No structures are in danger.
Alert by Mossel Bay Municipality: Vegetation fire N2; 05 January 2026 @ 13h50
Mossel Bay Fire, Rescue and Disaster Management Services responded to a large vegetation fire next to the N2 off ramp, to George. The incident has been escalated to the relevant fire service of Garden Route District Municipality. The local crew is currently assisting until Garden Route District Municipality fire Service arrives on scene. No structures are in danger, nor is there a smoke hazard on the N2.
Some more videos:
https://www.facebook.com/reel/1637908117384203
https://www.facebook.com/reel/901132205755163
https://www.facebook.com/reel/1806044360071237
https://www.facebook.com/reel/1663798281254518
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?ref=saved&v=1556163445528000
https://www.facebook.com/reel/1556836015750972
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?ref=saved&v=2105502729856455
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?ref=saved&v=1500165007750173
Sources: Garden Route District Municipality, Mossel Bay Municipality, SABC News Western Cape
