Deep Creek Fire Update: A Community on Alert
As of 6:00 PM on February 3rd, the situation regarding the Deep Creek Fire has escalated due to increased winds that have fueled fire activity, particularly on the eastern flank of the blaze. Currently, the fire has consumed approximately 2,200 hectares, and firefighting crews are working diligently to prevent its spread along Main South Road. Thanks to their relentless efforts, the road has been reopened, allowing local residents, including those from Kangaroo Island, to regain access. However, it's important to note that conditions remain volatile, and the road could be closed again without warning.
In many scrub fires, the presence of embers—burning leaves and twigs carried by the wind—can ignite new fires within the already affected areas. Typically, these new ignitions may naturally extinguish when they reach land that has already burned. Nonetheless, as we witnessed yesterday, these embers can lead to spot fires, further exacerbating the situation.
Firefighters, along with heavy machinery and aerial support, are actively engaged in combating the flames. However, the rugged terrain poses significant challenges for accessibility. If you are in the vicinity, it is crucial to stay vigilant and activate your bushfire response plan as necessary.
Tomorrow's total fire ban is primarily driven by wind conditions, which adds an unpredictable element to the fire's behavior, potentially resulting in increased smoke drifting over Cape Jervis and Kangaroo Island.
The public is reminded that this area remains an active fire ground, with circumstances changing rapidly. Individuals in the impacted region should avoid entering if possible and heed the instructions of emergency personnel. This includes refraining from using drones, which pose a serious threat to firefighting aircraft and must be kept away from fire zones.
A Heartfelt Thank You for Your Support
Updated at 3:00 PM, February 3rd
The tremendous support from Yankalilla and surrounding communities has been nothing short of remarkable. We deeply appreciate our community's ongoing assistance to the firefighters and emergency service workers who are laboring under challenging conditions to manage the Deep Creek fire.
The Salvation Army has set up a station at the Yankalilla staging area, providing food and refreshments to our crews, and we extend our gratitude for their ongoing contributions. While we truly value the generous donations from the public, firefighters currently do not need extra food supplies. If you wish to contribute, consider donating to the CFS Foundation, which supports volunteers and their families in need - visit https://cfsfoundation.org.au/ for more information.
Authorities are actively evaluating the needs of those who might be affected and will issue requests for donated goods if necessary.
Community Information Session in Cape Jervis
Updated at 12:00 PM, February 3rd
CFS Community Liaison Officers will be available from 1:00 PM to offer information to community members in front of the local tavern located at the corner of Ransford Street and Flinders Drive in Cape Jervis.
Incident Overview
Updated at 11:30 PM, February 3rd
The South Australian Country Fire Service (CFS) continues to tackle the fire raging between Deep Creek National Park and Cape Jervis on the Fleurieu Peninsula. Through the dedicated efforts of firefighters overnight, the fire has been contained to about 1 kilometer away from Cape Jervis. To achieve this, crews utilized various strategies, including direct asset protection, establishing control lines with heavy machinery, and conducting backburning south of Blowhole Road.
Despite these efforts, the fire remains uncontrolled, having spread over 1,600 hectares and continuing to burn on multiple fronts within challenging and steep terrain. The anticipated shifts in wind today are expected to add to the unpredictability of the fire, making it vital for individuals in the area to stay informed and act on their bushfire plans accordingly.
A warning message remains in effect for this fire. For the latest updates, please check the CFS website (cfs.sa.gov.au) or use the Alert SA app.
Currently, over 260 firefighters are deployed across 40 fire trucks and 15 support vehicles, working alongside crews from the CFS, Farm Fire Units, SA Metropolitan Fire Service, Department for Environment and Water, and Forestry SA. Today's priorities include establishing control lines with assistance from heavy machinery and executing backburning operations. This effort is supported by 11 aircraft, including firebombers and observation planes, which are aiding in fire suppression and controlling the fire's advance with retardant.
We express our gratitude to the local community and our partner agencies, including the SA Ambulance Service, St John Ambulance, the Salvation Army, private contractors, and the Yankalilla Council, for their invaluable support.
Currently, the fire is impacting Main South Road, which is closed from Cole Road in Delamere to Cape Jervis. Smoke from the blaze may affect surrounding areas, and emergency services will continue operations on and around the roads. Motorists are advised to avoid the region if possible.
Deep Creek National Park is entirely shut down, and Talisker Conservation Park remains fully closed. Residents should expect smoke to drift over to Kangaroo Island and the Yorke Peninsula. As a precaution, those with respiratory or cardiac issues may want to close all windows and doors and stay indoors.
A CFS staging area is operating at the Yankalilla Showgrounds, while Yankalilla Oval is being utilized for aviation operations. We kindly ask the public to steer clear of these locations.
Lastly, please remember that this is an active fire ground where situations can change frequently. Anyone present in the area is urged to maintain distance whenever possible and follow guidance from emergency personnel. Additionally, the use of drones is strictly prohibited due to the serious risk they pose to firefighting aircraft.
