Plettenberg Bay homes destroyed in fire

A massive wildfire on the outskirts of Plettenberg Bay yesterday, February 28, engulfed large parts of the coastal holiday town’s outlying areas, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake, Knysna Herald reports.

Initial reports have revealed that at least three homes had been destroyed, and firefighters believe more than 1000 hectares had been burnt.

Several residents had also been evacuated and shop owners at Old Nick packed up their stock and moved it out at about 8pm as the flames approached the areas.

The fire, which first broke out on Friday on the Old Plett Timbers property in Wittedrift but was contained on Monday, flared up again on Tuesday due to the dry and windy conditions and was burning out of control by 2pm.

As night fell, a wall of flames was visible as far as the eye could see, with firefighters from across the region called in to assist.

George fire services also responded after the fire was declared a “Code Red” last night.

Municipal spokesperson Chantal Edwards-Klose said they only managed to bring the fire under control at about 1.20pm.

– Caxton News Service

For more news your way, follow The Citizen on Facebook and Twitter.