Issued on
30 Jan 2026 17:25
Katarapko Island Fire
The SA Country Fire Service (CFS) is continuing to respond to multiple fires burning on Katarapko Island, approximately 11km south-west of Berri in the Riverland.
CFS volunteer firefighters, supported by SA Metropolitan Fire Service and Department for Environment and Water personnel, remain on scene working to extinguish the fires, which have burnt approximately 213 hectares. Crews are also being assisted by SA Police, SA Water and 5 aircraft, including firebombers and observational aircraft which have completed 360 drops (over 1 million litres) of aerial firefighting product over the last two days to help limit the fire's spread.
Due to access constraints, firefighters and trucks are being transported to the island via an SA Water barge.
With heightened fire weather forecast in the coming days, crews will remain on scene to continue suppression and monitoring activities.
These fires do not currently pose a risk to the community however smoke may be visible from surrounding areas. People in the area are encouraged to stay informed at cfs.sa.gov.au.
Access to the Murray River National Park-Katarapko Section remains limited. Visitors should check parks.sa.gov.au/know-before-you-go/closures-and-alerts/murray-river-national-park-katarapko-section for the latest information on closures and restrictions.
The cause of the fire is yet to be determined, and fire investigators will attend the scene when conditions allow.
Emergency services may be working in the area and watercraft are advised to stay away. If you need to travel in the area, please take care and drive to local conditions. This remains an active fireground and, where possible, the community is encouraged to stay away. This includes the use of drones, which can be extremely dangerous to aviation operations.
Message ID 0009125
