The Jonkersdam fire raged on overnight, but so did the bravery of those whose boots were on the ground, keeping residential areas safe.
Cape Town (17 October 2025) – Firefighters and volunteers have been working around the clock after a fire swept across the Jonkersdam area of Table Mountain National Park and pushed toward Capri on Thursday.
Overnight, their efforts held the line and protected homes, with over 60 ground crew firefighters whose boots and bravery hit the ground running to keep residential areas safe.
Good progress has been made in containing the blaze, but it’s not over yet. Crews are focusing on remaining hotspots near Welcome Glen and De Gama Park, with around 85 firefighters deployed alongside aerial support, including a spotter plane and helicopter. Drone surveillance continues to guide the teams, while firebreaks cut in earlier operations have been vital in stopping the spread.
The fire saw an extraordinary joint response, with SANParks – Table Mountain National Park, City of Cape Town Fire & Rescue, NCC Wildfire Services, Volunteer Wildfire Services, Emergency Assistance Volunteer Support, Working on Fire, Provincial Disaster Management, Ocean View Volunteers, Enviro Wildfire Services, contracted drone operators and more, all working side by side.
For public safety, SANParks have advised the public to stay clear of all fire-affected areas to allow emergency access. Trails in the Jonkersdam area, including Kleinplaas Dam, Louis Gay Dam and nearby horse riding routes, remain closed.
SANParks has thanked community members and businesses who’ve already stepped up with food and supplies. Anyone wanting to support can drop off refreshments and essentials for the crews at the Newlands Forest Fire Base.
If you’re wondering what to give, these are some of the items that are always welcomed:
- Bottled water (small bottles are easier to carry)
- Energy drinks
- Rehydration sachets
- Fruit juice boxes
- Energy bars, protein bars, cereal bars
- Biltong, droëwors, and nuts
- Dried fruit and raisins
- Fresh fruit (bananas, apples, oranges, pears — easy to eat on the go)
- Sandwiches (individually wrapped)
- Muffins, rolls, and wraps
- Coffee, tea, milk
- Biscuits and rusks
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- Lip balm
- Wet wipes and baby wipes
- Hand sanitiser
- Face cloths and small towels
- Socks (fresh pairs are always needed)
- Plasters and bandages
- Burn gel/spray and aloe vera gel
While Capri is now under control, fires in Khayelitsha and Overcome Heights have left over 100 families displaced and homes destroyed. Humanitarian organisation Gift of the Givers has activated teams and will provide relief support once the fire sites are declared safe.
It takes bucketloads of courage and coordination to protect communities. Our endless gratitude goes out to frontline and NPO heroes who are always working tirelessly to keep communities safe and cared for.
You can find our more about the animal rescue heroes also working through the fire here.
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