Early-morning blaze destroys about 50 informal structures in Imizamo Yethu

About 50 informal structures were destroyed in an early-morning fire in Imizamo Yethu, Hout Bay, city officials said.

Firefighters contain blaze after several hours

The fire broke out at about 1:30am and prompted a substantial emergency response. About 40 firefighters were deployed after reports of structures alight on Hughenden Street, the City of Cape Town’s Fire and Rescue Services said.

The blaze was contained in the morning. As the fire was being brought under control, officials said emergency crews had contained the blaze by about 7:45am.

Damage, injuries and on-site difficulties

Preliminary reports put the number of informal structures destroyed at roughly 50. No fatalities were reported.

Two firefighters sustained minor injuries during operations and were treated on scene; neither required transport to hospital, authorities said.

Officials also requested law enforcement assistance during the response after some community members interfered with emergency personnel while they were carrying out their duties.

“At approximately 7.45am, firefighters had contained the blaze. Preliminary reports indicate that roughly 50 informal structures were destroyed. Law enforcement officers were requested to assist after certain members of the community interfered with emergency personnel while they were carrying out their duties,” Jermaine Carelse said.

Cause under investigation

The cause of the fire is unknown at this stage, the City of Cape Town said.

Related incident in Overcome Heights

City officials also reported a separate fire on Monday in the Overcome Heights informal settlement. A post-fire assessment was due to be conducted on Tuesday.

“The initial assessment points to approximately 60 informal dwellings destroyed, affecting 180 people, along with four formal dwellings where 35 people have been affected. Once the formal assessment is completed, Disaster Risk Management will liaise with Sassa and the National Department of Human Settlements to provide the required aid to affected residents,” Charlotte Powell said.

Authorities did not provide further details on aid or next steps beyond the planned assessment.