Cape Town's disaster risk managers warn about fires in face of strong winds

As windy conditions continue to wreak havoc across the Cape Peninsula, the city's Disaster Risk Management Centre has urged the public to be cautious about fires.

Disaster management spokesperson Sonica Lategan said there's been numerous structural and vegetation fires around Cape Town recently, and strong winds are making matters worse.

"Since Thursday last week, at least 500 persons have been affected by fire in informal settlement areas. The latest incident was overnight in Phumlani village."

Lategan said Overcome Heights, Khayelitsha and Witsands have also been ravaged by fires recently.

"Apart from the wind, temperatures are also expected to increase somewhat over the coming days, which in turn increases the risk, and potential impact of fires."

Lategan also urged the public to report fires to officials swiftly once spotted.