A Fierce Battle Against the Deep Creek Fire
The Deep Creek Fire: A Dangerous and Unpredictable Blaze
As of 6:00 pm on February 3rd, the Deep Creek Fire continues to pose a significant threat, with increased activity fueled by strong winds. The fire has already consumed 2,200 hectares, and firefighters are working tirelessly to prevent its spread along Main South Road.
The Challenge of Scrub Fires
Scrub fires, like the Deep Creek Fire, present unique challenges. Embers, carried by the wind, can create new fires within the existing fireground. While these embers often burn out naturally, they can also lead to spot fires, as witnessed yesterday, causing the fire to spread further.
A Multi-Pronged Response
Firefighters, supported by heavy machinery and aircraft, are actively engaged in battling this fire. However, the terrain is difficult to access, making the situation even more complex. Those still in the area are advised to monitor their surroundings and have their bushfire plans ready for immediate action.
Tomorrow's Total Fire Ban
The total fire ban issued for tomorrow is primarily due to strong winds, which will further complicate the fire's behavior. This could result in increased smoke over Cape Jarvis and Kangaroo Island.
A Dynamic and Dangerous Fireground
The public is reminded that this is an active and ever-changing fireground. Anyone in the area should stay away if possible and follow the instructions of emergency service personnel. Drones, in particular, pose a serious risk to firefighting aircraft and must be kept far away from the fireground.
Community Support and Donations
The outpouring of support from the Yankalilla community and its surroundings has been incredible. The Salvation Army is providing food and refreshments to our dedicated firefighters and emergency service personnel, who are working tirelessly under challenging conditions. While donations are appreciated, at this stage, firefighters do not require additional food.
If you wish to contribute, consider supporting the CFS Foundation, which assists volunteers and their families in need. https://cfsfoundation.org.au/
Community Information and Incident Updates
CFS Community Liaison Officers will be available at the local tavern in Cape Jervis from 1:00 pm to provide the latest information. The SA Country Fire Service (CFS) continues to respond to this fire, which has now burnt more than 1,600 hectares and remains uncontrolled.
Thanks to the efforts of firefighters, the fire was halted approximately 1km from Cape Jervis township. Crews used various techniques, including direct asset protection and creating control lines with heavy machinery and burning to the south of Blowhole Road.
Today's priorities include implementing control lines with heavy machinery support and back burning. Crews are backed by 11 aircraft, including firebombers and observational aircraft, which are crucial for active suppression and control lines using retardant.
Stay Informed and Take Precautions
A warning message remains in effect for this fire. Please stay updated through the CFS website or the Alert SA app. Residents with respiratory or cardiac conditions may wish to close doors and windows as a precaution due to the smoke extending across Kangaroo Island and the Yorke Peninsula.
A Call for Continued Support
We extend our gratitude to the local community and our partner agencies for their ongoing support. The fire is currently burning along Main South Road, which remains closed between Cole Road and Cape Jervis. Emergency services are actively working on and around roads, so motorists are urged to avoid the area.
Deep Creek National Park and Talisker Conservation Park are both fully closed. The public is asked to stay clear of the CFS staging area at the Yankalilla Showgrounds and the Yankalilla Oval, which is being used for aviation operations.
Remember, this is an active fireground, and the situation can change rapidly. Stay away if possible, and follow the directions of emergency service personnel. Let's continue to support our firefighters and emergency responders as they battle this challenging blaze.
