A Fiery Battle Rages On: Deep Creek Fire Update
Updated at 6:00 PM, February 3rd
The Deep Creek Fire continues its relentless march, fueled by gusty winds that have intensified its spread towards the eastern flank. But here's where it gets even more challenging: As of now, the blaze has devoured a staggering 2,200 hectares, with firefighters tirelessly battling to prevent it from encroaching further along Main South Road. Their valiant efforts have allowed the road to reopen for the local community, including Kangaroo Island residents, but this victory is precarious. The situation remains highly volatile, and the road could be closed again without warning.
The Hidden Danger: Ember Attacks
Like many scrub fires, this one has a sneaky weapon: embers. These burning leaves and twigs, carried by the wind, can ignite new fires within the fireground. While some of these spot fires naturally extinguish upon reaching already burnt areas, others, as witnessed yesterday, can spark new blazes and extend the fire's reach.
A multi-pronged attack is underway, with firefighters, heavy machinery, and aircraft working in tandem. However, the fire's relentless advance through rugged, inaccessible terrain poses a significant challenge. And this is the part most people miss: Residents still in the area must remain vigilant, closely monitoring the situation and being ready to execute their bushfire plans at a moment's notice.
Tomorrow's Total Fire Ban: A Wind-Driven Wildcard
The total fire ban declared for tomorrow is primarily driven by strong winds, adding another layer of unpredictability to the Deep Creek Fire. This could result in increased smoke drifting over Cape Jervis and Kangaroo Island, further complicating containment efforts.
A Dynamic and Dangerous Situation
Authorities emphasize that this is an active fireground, where conditions can shift rapidly. The public is urged to stay away from the area whenever possible and to strictly follow instructions from emergency service personnel. A controversial point to consider: The use of drones, while seemingly harmless, poses a grave threat to firefighting aircraft and must be strictly prohibited in firegrounds.
Community Support: A Beacon of Hope
Updated at 3:00 PM, February 3rd
The outpouring of support from the Yankalilla community and its neighbors has been nothing short of remarkable. We are deeply grateful for the unwavering assistance provided to our firefighters and emergency personnel, who are battling the Deep Creek Fire under extremely challenging conditions.
The Salvation Army has established a vital presence at the Yankalilla staging site, providing much-needed sustenance and refreshments to our exhausted crews. While we sincerely appreciate the generosity of the public, firefighters currently have sufficient food supplies.
Want to help? Consider donating to the CFS Foundation, which provides crucial support to volunteers and their families in times of need: https://cfsfoundation.org.au/
Authorities are carefully assessing the needs of those affected and will issue appeals for specific donations if required.
Cape Jervis Community Information Hub
Updated at 12:00 PM, February 3rd
CFS Community Liaison Officers will be available to provide updates and answer questions from 1:00 PM onwards, located in front of the local tavern at the corner of Ransford Street and Flinders Drive in Cape Jervis.
Incident Update: A Relentless Battle
Updated at 11:30 PM, February 3rd
The SA Country Fire Service (CFS) continues its tireless efforts to combat the fire raging between Deep Creek National Park and Cape Jervis on the Fleurieu Peninsula. Thanks to the heroic overnight efforts of firefighters, the blaze was halted approximately 1 kilometer from the township of Cape Jervis. Crews employed various strategies, including direct asset protection and establishing control lines using heavy machinery and back burning south of Blowhole Road.
However, the fire remains uncontrolled, having already consumed over 1,600 hectares and continuing to burn on multiple fronts in steep, inaccessible terrain. Predicted wind changes today further heighten the fire's unpredictability, making it crucial for residents in the area to stay informed and prepared to enact their bushfire plans.
A warning remains in effect for this fire. Please stay updated through the CFS website (cfs.sa.gov.au) or the Alert SA app.
A Massive Mobilization
Over 260 firefighters, supported by 40 trucks, 15 support vehicles, and 11 aircraft (including firebombers and observational planes), are engaged in a relentless battle to contain the fire. Crews from CFS, Farm Fire Units, SA Metropolitan Fire Service, Department for Environment and Water, and Forestry SA are working together, focusing on establishing control lines with heavy machinery and back burning. Aircraft are playing a crucial role in active suppression and control line reinforcement using retardant.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the local community and our partner agencies, including SA Ambulance Service, St John Ambulance, the Salvation Army, private contractors, and the Yankalilla Council, for their invaluable support.
Current Impact and Precautions
The fire is currently burning along Main South Road, which remains closed between Cole Road, Delamere, and Cape Jervis. Smoke from the fire may affect surrounding areas, and emergency services will continue working on and around roads. Motorists are strongly advised to avoid the area.
Deep Creek National Park and Talisker Conservation Park are both completely closed.
Smoke Advisory: Residents with respiratory or cardiac conditions are advised to consider closing windows and doors and remaining indoors as a precautionary measure.
A CFS staging area is operational at the Yankalilla Showgrounds, and Yankalilla Oval is being utilized for aviation operations. The public is requested to stay clear of these areas.
A Final Reminder
This is an active fireground with constantly evolving conditions. Residents in the area are urged to stay away whenever possible and to strictly follow instructions from emergency service personnel. The use of drones remains a serious hazard to firefighting aircraft and is strictly prohibited in firegrounds.
Food for Thought: As we witness the devastating impact of wildfires, it raises important questions about climate change, land management practices, and community preparedness. What steps can we take individually and collectively to mitigate the risks and build more resilient communities? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
