The devastating wildfires sweeping across the Eastern and Western Cape have prompted calls for a state of emergency, as communities face destruction of homes, infrastructure, and critical water shortages.
At the same time, urgent animal evacuations are underway, with the National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) deploying disaster response teams to rescue domestic, farm, and wild animals stranded by the fires.
Thousands of residents were forced to flee their homes, leaving animals particularly vulnerable. The NSPCA’s teams reveal that they worked in Kouga Municipality, Gqeberha, and surrounding areas, rescuing species ranging from tortoises, snakes, and birds to cats, dogs, and farm animals.
One accredited rehabilitation centre, Panthera Africa, had to relocate its large predators, successfully saving all but one animal that succumbed to smoke inhalation.
Rescue teams moved animals to safety, and in cases of severe injury, humane euthanasia was performed to prevent suffering. Species rescued included tortoises, snakes, birds, antelope, cats, dogs, and farm animals.
“Slow-moving species like tortoises and snails, as well as animals confined by fencing, are especially vulnerable,” the NSPCA said.
One of the NSPCA’s accredited rehabilitation centres, Panthera Africa, was severely affected, prompting the urgent relocation of large predators.
All animals were successfully evacuated, with only one fatality due to smoke inhalation.
The NSPCA extended gratitude to the Assisi, Garden Route, and Cape of Good Hope SPCAs for their assistance, highlighting the strong coordination between welfare organisations, emergency services, and volunteers during the crisis.
Meanwhile, the Public Servants Association (PSA) has backed calls from the Western Cape Premier to declare a state of emergency, citing the combined impact of wildfires and severe water shortages on communities.
“Financial assistance is crucial to repair damaged infrastructure, provide accommodation, and deliver urgent support to affected families,” the PSA said, urging government intervention without delay.
Western Cape Minister for Local Government, Environmental Affairs, and Development Planning Anton Bredell confirmed plans to approach the provincial cabinet to request a provincial disaster classification.
Bredell said such a declaration would enable faster funding and a coordinated response across departments.
Knysna, heavily affected by drought, is facing critical water shortages, with its main reservoir, the Akkerkloof Dam, at only 15% capacity, providing just a 10-day supply.
“Knysna currently consumes more water than it can supply. We need to reduce usage to 50 litres per person per day while developing alternative sources,” Bredell said.
On the wildfire front, Bredell warned the fire season remains severe, with hot, dry conditions expected to continue through April and May.
“Our aerial firefighting budget of R17 million is depleted, but we are reallocating funds to ensure all 21 aircraft remain operational for ongoing wildfire management,” he said.
The fires have underscored both the fragility of natural ecosystems and the urgent need for coordinated disaster response to protect lives, property, and wildlife in the region.
anita.nkonki@in.co.za
Saturday Star