A significant scrub fire continues to burn in the Mount Remarkable National Park near Alligator Gorge, Wilmington, in South Australia’s Flinders Ranges. The Wilmington fire, which started in densely vegetated terrain, has expanded overnight to cover an area of 1340 hectares. According to recent reports, the fire remains uncontained and is expected to burn for at least the remainder of the week, possibly longer.
The CFS (Country Fire Service) and the Department of Environment and Water are actively monitoring the situation. They are engaging in controlled burning to manage the fire’s spread where possible. Although currently confined within national park boundaries, due to previous controlled burns, officials have confirmed there is no immediate threat to local properties. However, the community is urged to remain alert and keep informed as the situation develops.
Due to the challenging nature of the terrain and the dense scrub, access for firefighting efforts is difficult, and the fire is anticipated to continue its spread towards Stony Creek Track. Emergency services, aided by aircraft including firebombers, and heavy machinery, are intensifying their efforts to contain the fire.
Local residents may notice increased smoke and possibly embers from the fire. Authorities advise that smoke could impact health and visibility, particularly affecting the Wilmington township and nearby localities. Residents are advised to take precautions, especially when driving through smoky conditions, to slow down and adjust to the decreased visibility.
The health impact of smoke exposure is also a concern. Symptoms can include shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, eye irritation, nasal discharge, chest tightness or pain, and symptoms of dizziness or light-headedness. Local health services stress the importance of seeking medical help if breathing difficulties arise or if any of the symptoms worsen. Severe cases should not hesitate to call 000 for emergency assistance.
Mount Remarkable National Park will remain closed to the public until further notice to ensure safety and to facilitate firefighting operations. Emergency personnel are actively working in the area, and non-essential travel is discouraged. Motorists in the vicinity are also advised to exercise caution and respect road closures and diversions set up by emergency services.
Stay informed
- CFS website cfs.sa.gov.au
- Information Hotline 1800 362 361
- For hearing or speech impaired users, phone 1300 555 727 then ask for 1800 362 361
- For teletype service TTY 133 677 then ask for 1800 362 361
- CFS on Facebook or X
- Alert SA Mobile App
- On local ABC radio, FIVEaa, or one of our other Emergency Broadcast Partners
For emergencies call Triple Zero (000).
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