January 14, 2026
Earth observation satellites provide near-real-time information for detecting and monitoring wildfires, supporting informed decision-making during fire events and assessing post-fire impacts. SANSA leverages satellite data with low to high spatial and temporal resolution to support all phases of the fire disaster management cycle.
SANSA leverages open-access and commercial satellite imagery to support wildfire detection and monitoring, as well as the assessment of fire origins and associated damages.
See below satellite images over two selected areas that have been affected by wildfires in Western Cape and Eastern Cape Provinces since last week:
The false colour image on the map shows active fires and fire-burnt scar around Franshoek and Wemmershoek Forest Reserve areas as captured by Sentinel 2A satellite on 09 January 2026. The area affected is displayed in brown-orange tons and delineated by a black outline. The image is presented using Sentinel 2 8A-6-5 band combination.
The natural colour image on the map shows active fires and fire-burnt scar around Garden Route National Park acquired by Sentinel 2A satellite on 08 January 2026. Smoke can be observed around the areas that were burning during the time of acquisition.
The false colour image on the map shows an old and new fire-burnt scar around Humansdorp, Eastern Cape, Reserve areas as captured by Sentinel 2 satellite on 08 January 2026. The areas affect by fire in January 2026 located in the red circle. The image is presented using Sentinel 2 12-8-4 band combination.
SANSA’s Earth Observation division continues to analyse the wildfires to assist government and private sector with insights to manage the fires and to support post fire recovery efforts. To access detailed report, maps or data over other areas, contact, please contact Customer Services at
customers-eo@sansa.org.za
