Update
MOSSEL BAY NEWS: Animal welfare teams are available to rescue and relocate pets and livestock as an out-of-control wildfire continues to burn along the N2 near Mossel Bay.
SPCA Mossel Bay branch manager, Elize Goosen confirmed that her team has assisted with the relocation of horses in the Aalwyndal area, and has also rescued birds and dogs affected by the flames.
The organisation has confirmed that it is on standby to assist residents and urges anyone needing help with animals to contact the SPCA immediately.
Residents evacuating with pets are further advised that the Hartenbos Animal Hospital is available to take in animals if necessary.
A tortoise was one of the animals who were rescued from the fire.
Meanwhile, the Mossel Bay Municipality has confirmed that several structures have already been lost, while strong winds continue to overwhelm firefighting efforts, making containment extremely difficult. Fire crews remain actively engaged in suppression and structure-protection operations.
Evacuations are underway for residents in Island View, Vakansieplaas and Aalwyndal. The public is urged to remain calm and strictly follow instructions from emergency personnel.
Road closures remain in place on Rooikat Street and Skilpad Street in the Aalwyndal area due to active firefighting operations.
The Garden Route District Municipality has requested additional firefighting support from the Hessequa and George municipalities, and a Joint Operations Centre has been activated to coordinate firefighting and evacuation efforts.
The Mossel Bay Advertiser news team is on the scene, following developments closely.
Residents wishing to assist firefighters can make donations at the Astron Filling Station, at the Dana Bay Neighbourhood Watch kiosk behind the green container, from where items will be delivered to the fire station. The public is reminded not to deliver donations directly to the fire scene.
Follow the Mossel Bay Advertiser for the latest updates on www.mosselbayadvertiser.com, as well as Facebook, X, TikTok and Instagram.
Contact the Mossel Bay SPCA emergency number at 072 287 1761 or the Hartenbos Animal Hospital at 084 633 5873.
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MOSSEL BAY FIRE UPDATE: Island View, Vakansieplaas, Aalwyndal residents being evacuated
