A mass evacuation is currently underway in the suburb of Pringle Bay due to rapidly intensifying fire conditions.
UPDATE: This article was updated with video footage of the Pringle Bay fire, taken on Tuesday, 30 January 2024.
Here’s what we know about the Pringle Bay fire and mass evacuation
In a statement, the City of Cape Town’s JP Smith, confirmed:
“With ongoing challenges and conditions that have rapidly changed, an evacuation has been called for the suburb of Pringle Bay.”
The firefighting efforts in Pringle Bay have been continuous, with resources initially deployed on Monday evening.
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These teams worked tirelessly throughout the night and resumed their efforts on Tuesday morning.
In response to the escalating situation, the City of Cape Town has increased its support. Earlier this afternoon, additional crew and appliances were brought in to bolster the firefighting efforts.
Meanwhile, in Betty’s Bay, a significant update has been provided regarding firefighting efforts.
On Monday night, the first fire crews arrived in Hangklip, focusing on protecting properties from an advancing fire.
Once the risk to structures was mitigated, teams began directly combating the fire line. Smith proudly reported the successful outcome:
“By this morning (Tuesday) our fire line in Hangklip was completely extinguished!”
The comprehensive approach in Betty’s Bay included a variety of firefighting vehicles, ranging from fire engine hydraulic pumps and water tankers to 4×4 Bush units, allowing close access to the fire.
Smith praised the effectiveness and dedication of the Cape Town Fire and Rescue Service, stating:
“With a range of firefighting vehicles to assist… our CCT team worked throughout the night.”
Significantly, the deployment to Hangklip did not compromise fire protection elsewhere.
“It is important to note: all the vehicles and fire engines that were sent through to assist, not one was taken from those being used at any of our 32 fire stations. Every single fire station continued with a full deployment throughout the night,” Smith clarified.
