Close call for Cape upmarket suburbs after blaze

Rescue operations on the scene

It was a close call for residents of one of Cape Town's upmarket suburbs when a veld fire threatened several homes in the Llandudno area this afternoon.

The fire broke out at around 1pm on Little Lion's Head behind the infamous Suikerbossie koppie of the Argus Cycle Tour, and was fuelled by the heat and strong winds. Fire services sent out six engines, four water tanks and three helicopters from Working on Fire to dowse the flames.

The fire raged for nearly two hours before it was brought under control. Residents of the breathtaking Cape Peninsula suburb spent several hours fearing for their property.

The fire department says it's too early to determine the cause of the fire and that an investigation will be done. No injuries or damage to property were reported.

The public is warned to be extra careful with open fires or when smoking as the hot, windy conditions are expected to last until the end of this week.