Staff Reporters
24 December 2024, 4:35 AM
Efforts to control the bushfire at Onkaparinga Hills near Woodcroft in South Australia’s southern Mount Lofty Ranges continue, as Country Fire Service (CFS) volunteers and emergency crews remain on-site. Firefighters have worked tirelessly through the night to protect properties and prevent the fire from spreading further.
Active Firefighting Efforts
CFS crews, comprising 50 volunteers and 15 trucks, are actively monitoring the fire ground. Heavy equipment has been deployed to secure the fire’s perimeter near Education Road, stretching from Singer Drive to Armata Road, and southeast of the Vines Golf Club. Aircraft have also played a critical role, completing 12 drops of fire retardant to stabilise the area.
CFS personnel will maintain their presence in the region over the coming days to ensure the fire is fully contained and extinguished.
Current Road Closures and Safety Concerns
Education Road, from Singer Drive to Armata Road, is closed to general traffic, with access limited to local residents only. Emergency services are actively operating in and around these roads, and motorists are urged to avoid the area.
Smoke from the fire may reduce visibility on nearby roads at times, posing additional risks to drivers and firefighters working in the area. Residents and motorists are asked to stay away unless travel is absolutely necessary.
Cause Under Investigation
The cause of the bushfire is yet to be determined. Investigators are expected to begin their assessment once the area is deemed safe.
Stay Updated
The CFS is providing regular updates through its website, information hotline, and social media channels.
CFS website: cfs.sa.gov.au
Hotline: 1800 362 361
Local Radio: ABC, FIVEaa, and other emergency broadcast partners
Residents in the area are advised to remain vigilant, adhere to all road closures and safety measures, and monitor updates for any changes to the situation.
Stay tuned for further updates.