Stanford fire: Homes threatened as strong winds hamper firefighting crews

The Stanford fire in the Overberg region posed a threat to homes in the Thembelihle township.

The municipality said thick smoke hovered over the area and people might have to evacuate should the situation not improve.

Firefighting efforts are being hampered by strong winds.

Overstrand municipal manager Dean O'Neill urged residents to remain vigilant.

"The following roads are in the process of being closed to prevent motorists from waiting on the roads in the Stanford area. Conditions may change rapidly and residents are advised to rather be safe than sorry. The R326 is closed towards Stanford, the R43 is closed at Stanford circle and De Kelders in Gansbaai, the R43 is closed at Voelklip circle and 17th Avenue."

ALSO READ: Winds hamper efforts to battle Dunoon informal settlement fire

Meanwhile, in Cape Town, a firefighter was treated for exhaustion while attending a blaze at an informal settlement in Dunoon earlier on Friday.

The city's fire service's Jermaine Carelse said other firefighters are still trying to put out the blaze.

"The city has numerous resources on scene. Helicopters have also been brought in to waterbomb the flames, fanned by strong southeasterly winds."

Firefighters were also deployed to Mossel Bay where a vegetation fire which had burnt for three days was contained.

Fire officials also continue to monitor doused fire lines in the Cape Winelands district in Franschhoek, Stormsvlei and Worcester.