Fire damages Paarl hospital outpatient department

Cover image from the Western Cape Government website

On 27 January 2026 the Paarl community became aware of a fire that broke out at Paarl hospital. The cause of the fire was not communicated immediately, but it has been confirmed that the fire caused the most damage to the hospital’s outpatient department.

Although the damage was extensive, there were no fatalities and the facility executed the evacuation protocols and responded accordingly during the crisis. In a statement released by Paarl hospital, they thanked the swift and effective response of the Drakenstein Fire and Rescue services and other relevant parties.

As a result, the situation was contained and handled properly. PSA confirmed that there had been reports that the fire had been allegedly started by an individual acting with malicious intent, however, no further information on the cause of the fire was released.

The repairs to the outpatient department will take some time, but the hospital remains open and functional. While the repairs are underway the hospital will have consider how to ensure patient safety, while services are reorganized. An assessment to determine the extent of the damage is currently being conducted.

Although, no lives were lost during this fire, one cannot help but wonder if livelihoods will be lost as a result of the fire? What exactly is the extent of the damage and how long will it take to repair?