Fire risks in the Garden Route, South Africa, have escalated due to climate change, invasive alien plants, dry conditions, and strong winds, leading to frequent and intense wildfires. The devastating 2017 fires in the Knysna and Plettenberg Bay areas were a stark reminder of how vulnerable our area is.  Recent events in late 2025, such as the Aasvoëlberg fire in Albertinia, demonstrate ongoing challenges with flare-ups, evacuations, and property threats despite containment efforts.

​Recent Incidents

Wildfires raged across the Western Cape, including the Garden Route, from November to December 2025, driven by hot, dry, windy weather. The Aasvoëlberg blaze in Albertinia required multi-agency response, with hotspots persisting due to invasive plants and poor access; it was contained by December 21 but highlighted vulnerabilities.

​
Earlier November fires in areas like Duiwehoks Dam and Dana Bay were successfully contained through coordinated efforts.

​

Key Risk Factors

• Invasive Plants: Heavily infested areas fuel intense fires and hinder firefighting, worsened by funding shortages for clearance.

• ​Weather Patterns: Sudden wind shifts, storms, and dry conditions reignite fires, as seen in recent Garden Route events.

• ​Terrain Challenges: Mountainous, inaccessible landscapes complicate suppression, with limited firebreaks.

Mitigation Efforts

Authorities conduct risk mapping, backburning, and patrols, involving municipalities, Working on Fire teams, and volunteers. Containment differs from extinguishment, requiring 48-72 hours of hotspot monitoring; public caution is urged to prevent ignitions.