Quick Read
- An uncontrolled bushfire in Deep Creek Conservation Park, South Australia, threatens over 20 properties.
- The fire, which started Sunday, February 1, 2026, has burnt approximately 960 hectares.
- 250 firefighters and 12 aircraft are battling the blaze in steep, volatile terrain.
- Properties in Silverton and Talisker Conservation Park are under direct threat.
- Main South Road is closed, and residents are urged to enact bushfire plans; the cause is under investigation.
ADELAIDE (Azat TV) – An uncontrolled bushfire ignited in the Deep Creek Conservation Park is actively threatening more than 20 properties south of Adelaide, South Australia, as hundreds of firefighters battle volatile conditions and inaccessible terrain. The blaze, which began on Sunday, February 1, 2026, has already consumed approximately 960 hectares and is causing significant concern for communities on the western tip of the Fleurieu Peninsula, prompting warnings for residents to activate their bushfire plans.
Deep Creek Firefighters Face Volatile Conditions
The Country Fire Service (CFS) confirmed on Monday, February 2, 2026, that approximately 250 firefighters are on the ground, working tirelessly to contain the rapidly spreading scrub fire. They are supported by 12 aircraft, including two Black Hawks, which have conducted 230 water drops throughout the day. However, the operation is severely hampered by the fire’s location in steep, difficult-to-access terrain, as well as unpredictable wind patterns.
CFS Chief Officer Brett Loughlin described the situation as ‘very volatile’ during an interview on ABC Drive. He highlighted that winds from ‘a multitude of directions,’ including terrain-driven gusts, are creating a ‘challenging situation’ across the entire fire ground. Mr. Loughlin noted that while parts of the fire are burning intensely at the front, other sections on the sides or back are exhibiting ‘reasonable fire behaviour beyond what you would expect in a more standard single direction, wind driven fire.’ Firefighters are making progress where possible but are constantly being challenged.
Properties Under Threat and Public Warnings Issued
The fire, which originated in the Deep Creek Conservation Park, has since spread into the adjacent Talisker Conservation Park. At least 10 of the properties currently under direct threat are located in Silverton, situated about eight kilometers east of Cape Jervis. Metropolitan Fire Service strike teams have been deployed specifically to protect these and other properties in the affected areas.
The CFS has issued urgent warnings to individuals in the vicinity of Blowhole Beach Road, Silverton, Talisker Conservation Park, Woodroofe Road, and Main South Road, advising them to ‘enact their bushfire plans and stay informed as the situation is quickly changing.’ In response to the escalating threat, Main South Road is currently closed in the westbound direction from Cole Road, Delamere, to Cape Jervis. The SeaLink Kangaroo Island ferry service has also taken to its Facebook page to urge the public against traveling to Cape Jervis.
Outlook and Investigation into Deep Creek Blaze
Chief Officer Loughlin indicated that the fire is continuing to grow, and firefighting crews are expected to remain on the ground ‘for days’ to fully contain the blaze. He emphasized the critical nature of the next few hours for personnel, hoping they can gain the upper hand despite the arduous conditions. The cause of the fire remains ‘under investigation,’ with authorities planning to deploy investigators once the immediate threat to assets has eased and the area is safe to access.
Public safety warnings also include a stern caution against flying drones in the fire zone. Such activity poses a significant risk to the aerial firefighting efforts by potentially interfering with aircraft operations, which are crucial for suppression and property protection.
The Deep Creek bushfire underscores the persistent challenges faced by emergency services in managing large-scale natural disasters in remote and rugged environments, particularly when compounded by unpredictable weather patterns.