Firefighting crews are continuing to battle persistent flare-ups in parts of Mossel Bay after fast-moving wildfires, fueled by strong winds and dry conditions, tore through residential areas overnight, destroying multiple homes, vehicles, and vast tracts of vegetation.
The crisis forced dozens of residents to evacuate from the Aalwyndal, Island View, and Vakansieplaas areas. While many found accommodation with family and friends or took refuge at local holiday resorts and guest houses, some residents chose to remain behind in a desperate bid to protect their properties.
One resident, who stayed to defend their neighborhood, described the scene. “We saw house after house that burned down. The fire brigade really did their best,” they said, crediting community efforts with hoses for helping save homes on their street. “We are very happy that the houses here on Failing Street are all still fine.”
However, the devastation was severe elsewhere, with some homes burning completely to the ground, leaving families with nothing. The flames also threatened the “ZJ Hulpsentrum” Zettie Jonker help center for children with special needs. A staff member, who was in constant contact with colleagues on-site, praised the response. “The community was great. Everybody came together and [was] helping,” they said, while expressing ongoing concern. “We’ve got flare-ups now at this stage and it can turn quickly. We are not safe yet.”
The human toll included three injured firefighters, one of whom was hospitalized for smoke inhalation.
The community’s compassion extended to animals as well. The Hartenbos Animal Hospital and the SPCA worked through the night, sheltering evacuated pets including dogs, cats, birds, and livestock. A spokesperson for the animal welfare efforts assured the public, “We are available. We have space,” and noted teams were also assessing the area for injured wildlife.
Residents who evacuated have now been allowed to return to their homes. In a powerful display of solidarity, the community has rallied to donate food, clothing, and other necessities to those who lost everything.
Multiple firefighting teams, supported by aerial resources, remain on the scene as operations continue to fully extinguish hotspots amid challenging weather conditions.