Three structures have been destroyed by a bushfire that has consumed over 3,000 hectares of land in South Australia. The fire, located near Deep Creek, 85 km southwest of Adelaide, has burned through 3,646 hectares with a 49 km perimeter as of Thursday morning. Authorities confirmed that the fire, ongoing since Sunday, has razed at least three buildings.
The South Australia Country Fire Service (CFS) reported progress in creating a perimeter around the northwest side of the fire on Wednesday. However, the fire’s behavior is expected to remain unpredictable due to coastal winds and challenging terrain in the Deep Creek National Park. Those wanting to evacuate the area can do so via closed roads but will not be allowed to return until the fire is contained.
Firefighters from Victoria are set to assist local crews in South Australia on Thursday. These crews have been tirelessly working since Sunday to safeguard nearby towns. In a separate incident, residents and visitors on the southwest coast of Western Australia were instructed to evacuate on Wednesday due to a nearby bushfire threat.
The Western Australia Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) issued a bushfire emergency warning for Forest Grove, approximately 250 km southwest of Perth. The fire, although contained, remains uncontrolled and is moving in a northwesterly direction. People in the affected area are advised to evacuate immediately if safe to do so, while those unable to leave should prepare to shelter in place.
Forest Grove, with a population of 253 individuals according to the 2021 national census, faces imminent danger. Margaret River, a town about 15 km north, with over 7,000 residents, is also on alert. Firefighters are actively combating the blaze, with aerial support aiding ground crews in their efforts.
