Update

AALWYNDAL NEWS - Strong and shifting winds continue to pose challenges to firefighting efforts in Aalwyndal and surrounding areas, despite the fire currently not spreading.

According to Garden Route District Chief Fire Officer Deon Stoffels, mop-up operations are underway in several areas, but wind gusts, constantly changing wind direction and inaccessible terrain have led to flare-ups and spot fires.

Active multi-agency firefighting continues, involving Mossel Bay and Garden Route District fire services, Working on Fire teams and volunteers.

Aerial firefighting operations were effectively utilised throughout the day under the command of the Garden Route District Municipality until 17:00, while volunteer-operated heavy machinery assisted in creating firebreaks.

According to a statement from the Mossel Bay Municipality, fire crews have successfully moved into gorges using hose lines to continue mop-up operations.

Additional support crews from Hessequa and George municipalities, along with Working on Fire, have been secured to bolster overnight operations.

The municipality says access control remains in place in Island View, with motorists urged to follow the instructions of law enforcement officials.

Klipheuwel Street in Aalwyndal has been closed in both directions.

As a precaution, more than 30 elderly residents and nursing staff in Aalwyndal were evacuated to ATKV Hartenbos.

The municipality says several domestic and wild animals have been taken to safety for medical care.

No further injuries have been reported.

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