Bezweni Lodge on the slopes of the Helderberg mountains, has reportedly been destroyed by a fire. The fire broke out on January 3 and strong south-easterly winds fanned the flames.

The fire was 99% contained on the morning of January 5. Alderman Smith, City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, said strong winds on Thursday had caused smaller flare-ups in the Helderberg area. The entrance into Sir Lowry’s Pass village on the N2 is closed intermittently depending on smoky conditions and the road to Bezweni Lodge remains closed. Traffic officers are on the scene to direct vehicles and assist drivers.

Two other structures are also reported to be damaged and details will be made known once the assessment is complete.

Vergelegen Estate in Somerset West has not had any structural damage as a result of a fire and remains open for business. The estate’s cellar tours have been cancelled for the moment because of increased activity from fire engines in that area. 

“Fires are a frequent occurrence in Cape Town, particularly during the hot, windy summer months. While the City of Cape Town is constantly seeking to create awareness around fire safety, we urge residents to exercise extreme caution, as many of these fires are preventable,” said Alderman Smith, City Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security.

There was also a bush and grass fire on the slopes of the mountain above Victoria Road in Llandudno; a fire on De Waal Drive in Zonnebloem; and a fire near Big Bay Boulevard on the West Coast Road. While these fires destroyed tracts of vegetation, there was no threat to life or property. 

To report a fire or any other emergency, call 107 from a landline or 021 480 7700 from a cellphone.