Residents of Dolphin Sands remain unable to return to their properties as emergency services work to secure the area following a devastating bushfire, with a severe weather warning now complicating recovery efforts.
The Tasmania Fire Service has confirmed 19 homes have been destroyed and 14 others have been damaged in the blaze, which continues to be monitored by about 30 firefighters from Tasmania Fire Service and Parks and Wildlife Services.
Tasmania Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner Jeremy Smith said safety concerns would keep Dolphin Sands Road closed as the Bureau of Meteorology forecasts damaging winds for the East Coast region.
“With increasing winds and debris still present on properties, conditions pose safety risks to the community, therefore Dolphin Sands Road will remain closed at this time,” Smith said.
“We’ll continue to reassess the situation tomorrow and keep the community informed at the earliest opportunity.”
Rapid impact assessments have revealed the extensive damage across the community, with a total of 122 assets affected including sheds, caravans, water tanks and electricity infrastructure.
Tasmania Police Commander Jason Elmer said authorities were continuously evaluating when residents might safely return.
“We recognise that this is stressful and frustrating for residents, but the safety of the community and responding emergency services is our number one priority at this time,” Elmer said.
Emergency services are door-knocking to check on welfare and ensure residents have necessary supplies, while an evacuation centre remains open at Swansea Town Hall for displaced residents.
The eastern section of Dolphin Sands Road beyond number 191 remains completely closed, while the western portion from the Tasman Highway is open to residents only.
Smith thanked emergency workers and acknowledged the community’s resilience during the crisis.
“Our thoughts are with the Dolphin Sands community at this time, particularly those affected homeowners,” he said.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation as authorities urge residents to stay informed via TasAlert.com and to have bushfire plans ready.
