A raging fire swept through an informal settlement in Johannesburg on Tuesday, leaving approximately 1,500 homes in ruins and displacing hundreds of residents, local authorities confirmed.
Residents suspect the blaze was ignited by an exploding paraffin stove, though officials have yet to determine the exact cause.
“I was fortunate to salvage most of my belongings, but many in the community lost everything,” a resident. “People are left with nothing—no homes, no possessions.”
Another resident, described the desperate attempts to contain the flames. “I got a call while at work and rushed back. The men in the community tried to put it out, but the fire spread too fast. Gas cylinders fueled the flames, making it uncontrollable.”
The fire spread rapidly through the settlement, where homes—mostly built from plastic, wood, and corrugated iron—were highly flammable.
Authorities have deployed disaster management teams to distribute food, clothing, and other essentials to affected families. Temporary shelters are also being arranged as relief efforts continue.
Ongoing Investigations and Relief Efforts
Officials are still investigating the cause of the fire while humanitarian organizations assist displaced residents. Emergency teams are working to prevent further tragedies in vulnerable settlements, where fires are a recurring risk.
This incident underscores the dangers of informal housing structures and the urgent need for safer living conditions in high-risk areas.