Plett is open for business
Plett experienced a few days of extreme weather two weeks ago. Extremely dry, hot weather coupled with gale force winds resulted in wildfires that swept through hundreds of hectares of natural fynbos and indigenous forest on the outskirts of town and rural areas.
Sadly, the fires caused the death of one firefighter and serious burns to another who is now recovering. The fires also caused widespread damage to the properties of locals, and to a few farms and businesses.
As the fires drew closer to the urban areas, some streets were instructed to evacuate and many others were put on evacuation alert. Fortunately however, the winds slowed and the fires were brought under control before they could spread into the densely populated urban areas of Plett itself.
While it is estimated that around 100 houses and buildings were razed in the devastating fires, most of these were in the rural area near the airport, including Kranshoek and Harkerville, and to the south of Plett closer to the end of Robberg beach and the Whale Rock estates. The Uplands and Kransbos areas north of Plett were also affected.
The greater part of Plett was unaffected by the fires, and tourism is still very much alive with business as usual throughout town. Fortunately very few tourism related establishments were damaged by the fires, and most that were are currently being restored.
The photos below were taken today, Wednesday 21st June 2017, and show clearly that Plett is functioning as normal. Tourists, visitors and holidaymakers can rest assured that it is safe to visit Plettenberg Bay, and any queries about the fires can be directed to manager@pletttourism.com or call 044 533 4065.
A special thank you to everyone who assisted with the humanitarian efforts during and after the Plett fires.
‘We bring you the latest Plettenberg Bay | Garden Route news’