An emergency warning has been reinstated for two townships on Flinders Island this morning as a large bushfire continues to burn on the island.
Residents in Pine Creek and Leeka are urged to leave immediately if it is safe to do so, while people near Killiecrankie and Killiecrankie Road should prepare to leave.
The Tasmania Fire Service say the fire is expected to be “difficult to control” and may impact Killiecrankie by 12pm.
“Take action now to protect yourself, your family and your home. If you are not prepared for a bushfire, be ready to leave for a safer place.”
“If you have made a bushfire plan, check it now. If you don’t live near Killiecrankie and Killiecrankie Road, Flinders Island, stay away.”
TFS Deputy Regional Chief Steve Richardson said that while the fire had originally been downgraded overnight, strong winds have pushed the blaze back up to emergency level.
Dozens of TFS and Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service crews arrived on the island overnight, with five waterbombing aircraft also in the area.
“If you have left the area do not return, as crews are expecting volatile conditions throughout the day,” Richardson said.
The Whitemark Town Hall is on standby as an Evacuation Centre if needed.
