A devastating wildfire is sweeping through the Kouga Municipality in South Africa, forcing families to flee their homes as firefighters battle to contain the blaze. Fueled by strong winds, the fire has already damaged homes and properties in the Kromme River and Smith Town areas. Authorities report that three major fires are still burning in the region, with helicopters providing aerial support to ground crews. Kouga Mayor Hattingh Bornman confirmed that three helicopters have been dispatched to strengthen operations.
Despite the challenges, officials say no new evacuations are needed at this stage and all roads have been reopened. The fire, which started near Hankey and Oyster Bay, spread rapidly due to dry conditions and strong winds. On Thursday, the municipality ordered urgent evacuations for people living along the R330 near Hankey and for nearby poultry farms. Families on farms near Oyster Bay Road, around the Kromme River and Riverside were also evacuated. The N2 between Humansdorp and Jeffreys Bay was temporarily closed, causing heavy congestion, but has since reopened.
Humanitarian group Gift of the Givers has been assisting the affected communities, working with firefighters, farmers, the South African Police Service, and local groups. The organization sent a water tanker from Adelaide to Kouga and is delivering water to communities in Zoar, Ladismith, Knysna, and Plettenberg Bay. Teams are also supplying firefighters with food and drinks, fuel for farmers’ water pumps, and support for evacuees at shelters.
The municipality is closely monitoring the situation, particularly the water supply, after an electrical outage raised concerns for St Francis Bay. Officials say the water supply remains stable for now. Gift of the Givers continues to provide support, and the municipality is working to bring the fire under control as soon as possible. Residents are advised to remain vigilant and follow authorities’ instructions.
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