'Cape of Storms' braces for unprecedented storm

An unprecedented level 9 warning has been issued by the SA Weather Service (SAWS) for a massive storm to hit various parts of the province from Monday morning.

Gale force winds fanned a number of fires and blew off vehicles from bridges since Saturday.

Trees have been uprooted and electricity poles toppled as the province hunkers down.

The Western Cape Government has appealed to motorists to refrain from taking long trips, due to heavy rain expected today. 

Premier Alan Winde says the Disaster Management Centre has already been activated to respond to any incidents.

"Everybody across this province, please be safe out there, we need people to consider if they are travelling rather if possible mitigate any long distance travel across some of the Level 9 areas. Make sure that you steer clear of passes as well as bridges and high risk areas in those specific districts."

Meanwhile, an assessment is underway as nearly two-thousand people have been left homeless after a fire destroyed shacks at Kayamandi in Stellenbosch.

Authorities say over 300 shacks were gutted by the blaze on Saturday. 

No injuries were reported. 

Humanitarian aid organisation, Gift of the Givers has already started to assist the residents.

Project Manager, Ali Sablay says they will remain there for the next few days.

"Our teams are currently on the ground, we are assisting the fire victims with hot meals, blankets, mattresses and baby care packets to name a few. Our main concern is to evacuate the residences."