People in the Pine Scrub and Leeka areas of Flinders Island are being evacuated this afternoon as an “out of control” bushfire burns.
The Tasmania Fire Service say people around West End Road should get out now, with the area expected to be put at”severe risk as early as within 30 minutes”.
“The fire is travelling towards West End Road, communities of Pine Scrub and Leeka. Burning embers may threaten your home before the main fire arrives,” the TFS say.
“Smoke and ash may make it difficult to see and breathe. Tasmania Fire Service and Parks and Wildlife Service are on scene. Conditions are expected to worsen.”
The nearby Flinders Island Airport was hit by 50km/h wind gusts around 1:45pm on Monday, just minutes after the evacuation alert was issued.
TFS Deputy Regional Chief Steven Richardson said multiple firefighters are currently in the area, with more crews and five waterbombing aircraft on the way.
Richardson asks anyone that may have evacuated and is in need of assistance to visit the Town Hall in Whitemark.
Tasmania Police Northern District Commander Kate Chambers said officers are on the scene and assisting residents who wish to leave the area.
TFS What to do:
- If your home is built using contemporary bushfire design standards, is well prepared and you can actively defend it, it may provide shelter.
- If your home is unprepared, go to a safer location now only if the path is clear and safe.
- If you have made a bushfire plan, use it now.
- There is an Evacuation Centre at Town Hall, Patrick Street Whitemark.
- If you don’t live near West End Road, communities of Pine Scrub and Leeka, stay away.
- For fire updates visit tasalert.com
