Spokesperson for the City of Cape Town's Fire and Rescue Service Jermaine Carelse said various crews from different fire stations were on the scene trying to contain the blaze.

He said emergency services were notified of the blaze on Sunday after 05:00.

"The bitumen on the roof is even melting, an indication of the intense heat. There have been reports of some walls showing cracks, which could indicate a collapse," he said.

Carelse said two fire safety officers had been dispatched to the scene.

Images and videos shared on social media show thick black smoke and a blaze coming from one side of the building.

This is a developing story.

News24