Severe wind gusts have left aircraft unable to battle a bushfire burning in the Port Latta area in Tasmania’s north-west this afternoon.
Tasmania Fire Service District Officer Dean Graue said, despite this, multiple ground crews were actively responding to the blaze.
An emergency warning was issued for the Crayfish Creek area just before 2:30pm on Sunday, forcing people at the nearby caravan park to evacuate.
“Due to severe wind gusts, aircraft are unable to fly until safe, but ground crews are actively working to bring the bushfire under control,” Graue said.
“Due to the location of the fire, police have closed the Bass Highway to all traffic in both directions between Mawbanna Road and Loosemores Road and members of the public are asked to avoid the area.”
An evacuation centre has been set up at Rocky Cape Community Hall at 19074 Bass Highway.
“Motorists are asked to slow down to 40km/h in the vicinity of the road closure between Mawbanna Rd and Loosemores Rd to ensure the safety of our emergency services workers.”
“The Bureau of Meteorology has advised that strong winds are expected to peak later this afternoon, before reducing this evening.”
The Tasmania Fire Service expect the blaze to put Crayfish Creek and the Amaroo Drive area at “extreme risk” in the next hour.
“Burning embers may threaten your home before the main fire arrives. Smoke and ash may make it difficult to see and breathe,” the TFS say.
“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.”
‘Prepare to leave’ warnings issued as Port Latta bushfire forces Bass Highway to close
12:45pm Sunday, March 3: A bushfire has left thousands without power and dozens of people being told to prepare to evacuate in Tasmania’s north-west today.
The Bass Highway has been closed as a result of the blaze near Pipeline Road at Port Latta between Wynyard and Stanley, with police diverting traffic away from the scene in both directions until further notice.
The Tasmania Fire Service (TFS) has issued a ‘prepare to leave’ warning for Crayfish Creek and surrounding areas.
They warn that the fire is expected to reach Crayfish Creek within the hour.
“The fire is travelling towards Crayfish Creek. The fire is expected to be difficult to control,” the TFS said.
“Embers, smoke, and ash may fall on Crayfish Creek and surrounding areas. Conditions are expected to be changeable.”
TasNetworks have confirmed 1,260 customers across Boat Harbour, Hellyer, Port Latta and Sisters Creek are without power and are advising those affected to check back after 3:30pm.
