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Bushfire – A fast-moving bushfire in South Australia has destroyed multiple structures and scorched thousands of hectares, as emergency crews continue to battle challenging conditions across affected regions. Authorities confirmed that at least three buildings were lost as the fire spread across rural land, raising concerns for nearby communities and natural reserves.

Fire Expands Across Fleurieu Peninsula

Emergency services reported that the blaze, burning near the rural locality of Deep Creek, approximately 85 kilometres southwest of Adelaide, has consumed about 3,646 hectares of land. Officials said the fire perimeter extended roughly 49 kilometres as of Thursday morning, highlighting the scale of the ongoing emergency across the Fleurieu Peninsula.

The South Australian Country Fire Service confirmed the destruction of structures late Wednesday after conducting damage assessments. The fire has been active since Sunday, spreading rapidly due to dry vegetation and changing weather patterns common during Australia’s bushfire season.

Firefighters Face Difficult Terrain and Changing Winds

Crews working on the ground have made some progress by securing parts of the fire boundary along the northwestern edge. However, authorities warned that the situation remains unpredictable. Coastal winds and the rugged landscape inside Deep Creek National Park have complicated containment efforts, limiting vehicle access and slowing firefighting operations.

Officials advised residents and visitors wishing to evacuate to use designated exit routes, including temporarily closed roads opened only for departures. Emergency authorities emphasized that those who leave will not be permitted to return until conditions improve and the fire threat is reduced.

Reinforcements Arrive from Interstate

To support exhausted local firefighting teams, additional personnel from the neighbouring state of Victoria were scheduled to arrive on Thursday. These reinforcements are expected to assist with protecting residential areas and strengthening containment lines around vulnerable communities.

Emergency responders have been working continuously since the fire began, deploying ground crews, heavy machinery, and aerial resources in a coordinated effort to prevent further damage. Officials acknowledged the dedication of firefighters and volunteers who have been operating under demanding and hazardous conditions.

Western Australia Community Faces Separate Bushfire Threat

In a separate incident, residents along Western Australia’s southwest coastline were directed to evacuate following a new bushfire emergency warning. The Western Australia Department of Fire and Emergency Services issued alerts late Wednesday for people living in Forest Grove, a small community located about 250 kilometres southwest of Perth.

Authorities reported that although firefighters had managed to contain sections of the blaze, it remained uncontrolled and was moving toward the northwest. The emergency warning highlighted immediate risks to lives and properties, urging residents to leave quickly if safe evacuation routes were available.

Officials also advised those unable to leave to prepare to shelter inside their homes, ensuring protective measures were in place. Emergency crews warned that the threat could escalate rapidly if weather conditions changed or if containment lines were breached.

Emergency Services Deploy Ground and Air Support

Fire crews in Western Australia have launched an extensive response operation, including water-bombing aircraft and additional firefighting units to slow the fire’s advance. Authorities stressed that quick decision-making by residents could be crucial in protecting lives as the situation continues to evolve.

Forest Grove is home to just over 250 residents, according to recent national census data. The nearby regional centre of Margaret River, located roughly 15 kilometres north, has a population exceeding 7,000 and remains under close monitoring by emergency services.

Authorities across both states continue to urge residents to stay informed through official alerts, follow evacuation instructions, and remain prepared for sudden changes in fire behaviour as emergency crews work to contain the outbreaks.