Table Mountain Fire Contained but Trails Remain Closed

The fire that ignited on Table Mountain in Cape Town, South Africa last Sunday as a result of lightning strikes is now largely contained. However, several popular hiking trails in the area remain closed as fire risks and hazards like falling trees and rockfalls persist.

Why this matters: The containment of the Table Mountain fire is vital for the safety of residents, hikers, and firefighters, and the preservation of the unique biodiversity of the area. The impact of the fire on the ecosystem and local communities highlights the importance of wildfire prevention and management in protected areas.

The containment of the Table Mountain fire is vital for the safety of residents, hikers, and firefighters, and the preservation of the unique biodiversity of the area. The impact of the fire on the ecosystem and local communities highlights the importance of wildfire prevention and management in protected areas.

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) reports that the fire burned through approximately 283 hectares of vegetation on the mountain. Light rain and mist in recent days have helped firefighters get the upper hand, but isolated hot spots and smoldering tree stumps are still a concern. As of Wednesday, 40 firefighters from various agencies remained actively engaged along the fireline.

In a statement, SANParks said, "Light rain this morning has helped contain the fire's spread on the Back Table, but isolated hotspots, furthermore, falling trees and rockfalls remain a concern. "They stressed that"The priority remains the safety of residents, hikers, and firefighters and therefore we encourage users to refrain from accessing these areas."

The Contour Path, Skeleton Gorge, and Nursery Ravine trails that lead from the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden up to Table Mountain will stay closed through the weekend. Park fire manager Justin Buchmann advised.

"At this stage, we still advise hikers to remain off the trails, even with the drizzle this morning, but we will send staff to assist with the conditions of the trail because we are worried about trees that have come down due to the fire and once we've done that assessment we can determine whether to open the trails."

Trails along Constantia Nek and Newlands, including those on the Back Table between Camps Bay, Hout Bay, and Orangekloof have reopened to hikers. However, Skeleton Gorge and the contour path from Fernwood to Cecilia Forest are still off limits.

Authorities are urging hikers to stay alert and immediately move to a safe location if they see or smell any smoke while out on the trails. The public should call 086 110 6417 or the Newlands Dispatch at 021 689 7438 to report any emergencies or new fire sightings.

Table Mountain is an iconic landmark overlooking Cape Town and a celebrated hiking destination, attracting visitors with its panoramic views and unique biodiversity. The mountain forms part of Table Mountain National Park, which spans around 25,000 hectares. Just this year, Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden, situated at the base of the mountain's eastern slopes, was recognized being the Best Botanical Garden in Africa by the 2023 World Luxury Travel Awards.

Firefighters continue to monitor the situation on Table Mountain as they conduct further assessments of the impacted areas. Visitors should check the Kirstenbosch social media pages and SANBI website for the latest updates on trail closures and reopenings before planning any hikes in the park.

Key Takeaways

• Table Mountain fire in Cape Town largely contained, but trails remain closed due to fire risks.
• 283 hectares of vegetation burned, with isolated hotspots and smoldering tree stumps still a concern.
• 40 firefighters remain engaged, with priority on resident, hiker, and firefighter safety.
• Several trails, including Contour Path and Skeleton Gorge, closed until further notice.
• Hikers urged to stay alert and report any new fire sightings or emergencies to authorities.