Areas of Somerset West in South Africa were evacuated last night (03/01/17) as firefighters battled to contain a fire in the Western Cape region that had started earlier in the afternoon. JUSTIN SULLIVAN captured the incredible photos on this page.

At least eight fires spread through the Western Cape yesterday, as they were fanned by strong winds. Properties were burned including Bezweni Lodge in Sir Lowry’s Pass village, Somerset West.

After a night in which fire services described the fire as out of control, Justin said “as the sun rises, we await for confirmed reports on the number of properties damaged.”





Helicopters had been called off because of the strong winds. This morning, aerial barrage started at first light to help ground crews contain lines today.

SAPeople followers Danielle Hough said it was “very

Although the wind had dropped this morning, SA Weather Service has just issued a Warning that “extremely high fire danger conditions are expected over the interior of the West Coast District and the Cape Metropole today.”

VWS Wildfires said: “This is extremely bad news with the large #wildfires still on the go at the moment.”

Cape Peninsula Fire said the #Helderberg Team was deployed early this morning in all efforts to contain the #Vergelegen #Fire.”

South African expats from around the world – as well as Australians, Canadians and Californians who experience similar fires – sent messages to the people of Somerset West.

Cheryl Linsley said: “We may not live there anymore but a piece of my heart will always be in Somerset West. Strength and goodness to all the people and especially the firefighters.”

Faye Kaplan said: “

IF YOU ARE IN THE AREA:

The Firefighting Volunteers are in desperate need of eyedrops, bread, water, canned food, energy bars and tinfoil. These can be dropped off at the Strand Fire Station, c/n George Street & Broadway Blv, Strand.

Due to the fires, Cape Nature has closed Hottentots Holland and Kogelberg Nature Reserves until further notice.

Good luck to all the brave men and women out there fighting fires today.

All Photos © Justin Sullivan at Somerset West Fires, 03 / 04 January 2017

These photos are republished with kind permission of SullivanPhotography. Thank you to NCC Environmental Services for the new kit to keep photographer Justin Sullivan safe for the 2017 fire season.

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