The Mayor of St. Francis Bay explains the fire started as a consequence of informal settlers clearing space for the erection of informal dwellings. Part of the process entailed the informal settlers setting vegetation alight. However, due to strong winds, the fire spread to surrounding areas and eventually caught onto thatch of surrounding formal dwellings. Once the thatch caught alight, this then spread rapidly. Due to the valiant efforts of St. Francis Bay firefighters and Nelson Mandela Metropolitan municipality, the fire was brought under control. No people are reported dead, and at least 11 homes have been serverely damaged. (See video below)
Source: eNCA News
