SA Country Fire Service

Media release

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CFS ADVISES RESIDENTS AFFECTED OR MAY BE IMPACTED BY THE SAMPSON FLAT FIRE TO LEAVE NOW.

03/01/2015


The CFS advises that the Sampson Flat bushfire continues to burn out of control on all flanks.
Strengthening winds are swinging from north to north westerly and will gradually turn westerly prior to trending south westerly later this afternoon. Wind speeds are predicted to be 40-45 KPH, with gusts to 70 KPH. Thunderstorms may produce gusts in excess of 90 KPH. These changing winds will cause the fire to continue to burn out of control in a South/South Easterly direction initially and later to burn, potentially, East to North Eastwards.

Due to the uncertain nature and impact of the fire behaviour it is imperative that people within these vicinities take appropriate action now.

The CFS urges anyone within the Mount Pleasant, Kersbrook, Gumeracha, Mount Torrens, Woodside, Lobethal, Inglewood, Upper Hermitage, Breakneck Hill, One Tree Hill township, Little Para Reservoir, Chain of Ponds, Houghton, Cudlee Creek, Lower Hermitage, Charleston, Birdwood, Lenswood, and Williamstown to LEAVE THE AREA NOW, AS THERE IS A HEIGHTENED RISK TO LIVES AND HOMES.

The CFS advises that Relief Centres have been opened at Golden Grove Recreation Centre (The Golden Way, Golden Grove) and at Sandy Creek (Curdatta Cricket Club, corner of Williamstown Road and Davies Road Sandy Creek).

Depending where you are in relation to the various firefronts, remember to relocate safely and be cautious on the roads. Determine the safest route out of your area if you haven't done so already, and be aware that roads may be closed, but that does not stop you leaving the area – road closures are to stop people entering the fire danger area.

Check for road closures, safe routes, and safe precincts by going to the CFS website, www.cfs.sa.gov.au, or by tuning in to the ABC, 5AA and local radio, or by checking the CFS FireApp and/or the CFS Facebook page for further information. Affected residents or others can also call the Bushfire Information Hotline on 1300 362 361. Remember, it is critical for people to stay informed of the changing conditions throughout the day.

Also be aware that significant smoke and fallen trees could make safe travel difficult and residents should be well aware of their safest exit route. Do not drive into smoke.

Repeating, residents in the towns and areas mentioned above are advised to LEAVE NOW by the safest route, and if necessary, head to the Relief Centres.

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Media information
For media enquiries call the CFS Media Line on 08 8115 3531.

Government of South Australia