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GEORGE NEWS - The fires in Herold and the Outeniqua mountains on the outskirts of George have people talking and worrying about the town's safety.
The Montagu Pass was closed early afternoon due to thick smoke in the area, but the Outeniqua pass remains open. Drivers are cautioned to drive safely.
According to rescue services there is no reason for panic at this stage. The fire started late on Wednesday afternoon in Herold, on the northern side of the Outeniqua mountains.
Fire services of George and Garden Route District Municipality were hastily withdrawn from Vermaaklikheid in the Hessequa district where they have been helping to contain fire since Tuesday.
This morning residents across George were alarmed when they noticed ash on their properties. Thick smoke clouds have been visible since early morning.
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A panicked resident phoned the George Herald to establish if it was necessary to evacuate. The resident wanted to know how a possible evacuation will be communicated.
Municipal spokesperson Chantel Edwards-Klose emphasised there is no reason for panic and in a situation of evacuation residents will be informed well in time.
Reporters of the George Herald visited the Herold area where the fire started.
Read more on sister newspaper, George Herald
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