STANFORD, WESTERN CAPE – Visitors still in the picturesque Overberg town of Stanford have been urgently advised to pack up and leave as an out-of-control wildfire, driven by strong winds, threatens to jump the R43 highway, raising fears that escape routes could be cut off at short notice.
The Overstrand Municipality issued the warning on January 9, 2026, as firefighting teams continue battling an aggressive blaze now in its second day. Authorities confirmed that the Stanford fire has already burned approximately 3,174 hectares and remains actively out of control, with multiple fire fronts advancing simultaneously.
A major concern is a fire flank moving toward the Die Kop Informal Settlement, where officials have begun loud hailing to prepare residents for a possible evacuation. Another active front is advancing toward the R326, further complicating containment efforts.
“Visitors still in the Stanford area are advised to consider packing up and leaving the area,” the municipality stated, warning that the R43 between Stanford and Gansbaai, while currently open, could be closed at short notice as conditions deteriorate.
An emergency shelter has been established at the Stanford Community Hall on Bezuidenhout Street for residents and visitors who choose to evacuate as a precautionary measure. Landowners and residents have been urged to remain on high alert and to “prepare for any eventuality.”
Fire Season Reaches Crisis Levels in the Western Cape
The Stanford blaze forms part of a broader and increasingly destructive wildfire season across the Western Cape, where emergency services are under severe strain. Provincial authorities have confirmed that approximately 90,000 hectares have burned so far this season, with R15 million already spent on aerial firefighting support alone.
Western Cape MEC for Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning Anton Bredell warned that conditions remain highly volatile.
“The outlook for the remainder of the summer remains hot and dry, which could extend the fire season beyond March,” Bredell said.
The unfolding crisis mirrors previous devastating fire and weather events that have impacted the province in recent years, including the Table Mountain fire escalation in Cape Town and widespread flooding that caused major road closures and travel chaos, highlighting the growing frequency and intensity of climate-related disasters in South Africa.
(See previous coverage:
Safety Instructions for Residents and Visitors
Authorities have reiterated the importance of vigilance and early action as the situation remains fluid:
- Report fires or smoke immediately: Overstrand Fire & Rescue on 028 312 2400
- Follow official updates: Overstrand Municipality Facebook Page or the Greater Overberg Fire Protection Association (goFPA)
- Prepare to evacuate early if advised; do not wait for a mandatory order if you feel unsafe
Fire officials have stressed that wind shifts and heavy smoke could rapidly change conditions, placing both residents and visitors at risk if warnings are ignored.
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