Western Cape incurs more costs due to recent fires

The Western Cape is once again counting the cost of devastating wildfires.

Over the past week, a series of runaway fires have torn through communities, including the Franschhoek area in the Cape Winelands region, the Overstrand area around Pearly Beach, Stanford, and parts of Mossel Bay.

About 90,000 hectares have also been reduced to ash, with firefighters working around the clock to bring the blazes under control.

Fire crews battled relentlessly in dangerous conditions, as strong winds and dry weather continue to fuel the spread of the fires.

Western Cape Local Government MEC Anton Bredell said that the province has already spent its entire budget of R15 million on aerial firefighting efforts.

However, Bredell is confident that this won't impact firefighting efforts.

 "I know that the Minister of Finance, as well as the Premier, will come to the table, we will discuss this, and in the adjustment budget, they will accommodate us."

Authorities said that the full extent of the damage is still being assessed.

Residents are urged to remain vigilant and avoid fire-damaged zones as mop-up operations continue.