Key Takeaways:
- Multiple bushfires are burning across Tasmania, with emergency warnings issued for fires at Glenlusk, Dolphin Sands, and Levendale.
- Strong winds have grounded firefighting aircraft, leaving ground crews to battle the fires.
- Residents are being urged to monitor TasAlert for the latest warnings and to evacuate immediately if told to do so.
- Conditions are expected to ease later in the day, which may give firefighters an opportunity to regain control of the situation.
- Old burns, even those weeks old, can flare up in the current conditions, and residents are warned to be vigilant.
Introduction to the Crisis
The situation in Tasmania is critical, with multiple bushfires burning out of control and threatening homes. The strong winds and warm temperatures have made it difficult for firefighters to combat the fires, and the use of aircraft has been grounded due to the windy conditions. Regional Fire Commander Simon Pilkington has described the conditions as "pretty unfavourable for firefighting," and has urged residents to monitor TasAlert for the latest warnings and to evacuate immediately if told to do so.
The Glenlusk Fire
The Glenlusk fire, which started just after midday on Molesworth Road, is one of the most concerning fires, with 27 crews working to slow its spread through hilly terrain near Collinsvale. The fire is burning in an area with difficult terrain, making it challenging for firefighters to access and combat the blaze. Homes are directly at risk, and crews are undertaking asset protection in the area to try and save as many properties as possible. Fortunately, at this stage, no homes have been directly impacted or lost, but the situation is still volatile and could change at any moment.
The Dolphin Sands Fire
Another major fire is burning at Dolphin Sands, with 13 crews responding to the blaze. The fire is burning through "very flashy coastal heath fuels" that are volatile in wind-driven conditions, making it difficult for firefighters to control. Homes are also at risk in this area, and the fire is spreading quickly due to the strong winds. The Tasmania Fire Service is working to contain the fire, but the conditions are making it a challenging task.
Other Fires Across Tasmania
The Tasmania Fire Service is also managing fires at various alert levels at Sandford, Rhyndaston, Colebrook, and Abels Bay. The Sandford fire is the only one with aircraft support at this time, with seven crews and one aircraft working to contain it. The other fires are being monitored closely, and residents are being urged to be vigilant and prepared to evacuate if necessary.
Warnings and Precautions
Regional Fire Commander Simon Pilkington has urged residents not to wait for emergency warnings before leaving the area. He has warned that old burns, even those weeks old, can flare up in the current conditions, and that residents should take action early if they can reasonably remove themselves from the area. The strong winds and warm temperatures are causing the fires to spread quickly, and it is essential for residents to be prepared and take necessary precautions to stay safe.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
The situation in Tasmania is serious, and residents are being urged to remain vigilant and monitor TasAlert for the latest warnings. The conditions are expected to ease later in the day, which may give firefighters an opportunity to regain control of the situation. However, until then, residents are being warned to be prepared and take necessary precautions to stay safe. The Tasmania Fire Service is working tirelessly to combat the fires, and residents are being urged to cooperate and follow the instructions of the authorities to ensure their safety.