Increased fire activity on the West Coast & Eyre Peninsula
28/12/2023
SA Country Fire Service crews are working hard to contain at least 12 fires still burning across the West Coast, Lower, and Upper Eyre Peninsula.
This region has experienced the brunt of the State's fire activity today, primarily caused by bands of dry lightning strikes.
The CFS State Duty Commander, Raymond Jackson, is asking South Australians to be on high alert, as we approach the long weekend.
"We know this summer has been wetter and cooler than first predicted, but after today's weather and fire activity, we urge everyone not to become complacent and to stay informed, by monitoring the conditions in your region.
Many South Australians are planning to take advantage of the long weekend, so know the risk in the area you are travelling to or through by checking the fire danger ratings on the CFS websites," Mr Jackson said.
In addition to the 12 active fires, CFS crews, along with arial support, have worked hard to contain another 23 fires across the region today.
Total grass and stubble fires responded to by the CFS today, across the entire State, currently sit at about 57.
The CFS wishes to recognise and praise the efforts of those who have responded in this region and across the State today, including our partner agencies, and those who are expected to continue response efforts into the night.
From 5pm yesterday, over 20,000 cloud-to-ground lightning strikes have been recorded across the State, according to Emergency Services Meteorologist from the Bureau of Meteorology, Jonathan Fischer.
"Widespread dry lightning developed across western and southern parts of the State today, with the focus of this activity earlier this afternoon being across the Eyre Peninsula," Mr Fischer said.
With a number of incidents still going in the region and across the State, the CFS asks the public to be vigilant, continue to monitor conditions, and stay informed.
For more information, visit the CFS website at www.cfs.sa.gov.au.
