**Nangkita bushfire “Prepare to Leave” warning issued by the CFS**
The South Australian Country Fire Service (CFS) has issued a “Prepare to Leave” bushfire warning for residents in the area surrounding Nangkita. As of 11:36 AM (local time) on 29 January 2023, this alert was communicated to local residents, urging them to prepare to evacuate due to an active bushfire in the vicinity. This warning serves as a high-level advisory for communities at risk and highlights the importance of immediate action to ensure safety.
The bushfire, which is reportedly burning in scrubland in the Nangkita area, has been classified as posing a potential threat to life and property. The blaze is exacerbated by changing weather conditions, with high temperatures, dry vegetation, and gusty winds in the region contributing to increased fire behaviour. The exact size and scope of the fire have not been clearly disclosed at this time, but authorities remain concerned about its capacity to escalate quickly under the current conditions.
Residents within the impacted areas are urged to follow the advice provided by the CFS, which includes preparing to leave their homes at a moment’s notice. Those residing in high-risk bushfire zones are encouraged to enact pre-prepared bushfire survival plans or relocate to a safer location if they feel conditions are deteriorating. The message emphasises the need for residents to stay alert and aware, noting that leaving early is the safest option during incidents of this nature.
The notice specifically mentions several key safety measures, including packing essential items, ensuring pets and animals are accounted for, and relocating to safer ground well ahead of the fire’s arrival. It also advises against waiting until the last moment to leave, as roads may quickly become unsafe due to the advancing fire or heavy smoke, further complicating evacuation efforts. Community members are reminded that relocating sooner, rather than later, maximises their own safety and reduces the risk of injury or entrapment.
Emergency services have confirmed that multiple firefighting crews are actively working to suppress the blaze. Aerial water bombers are also being deployed in an effort to contain its spread, combatting the flames from above while ground teams work to establish containment lines. However, the CFS has indicated that challenging terrain and unfavourable weather conditions are hindering fire suppression efforts.
Local residents have reported significant smoke throughout the area, which is impacting visibility on several roads. Authorities have urged motorists to exercise extreme caution if travelling through affected areas or to avoid these regions altogether where possible. Those with respiratory conditions are advised to stay indoors and close windows and doors to limit exposure to smoke.
At present, there have been no confirmed reports of injuries or property losses; however, these details remain subject to change as the situation develops. Residents seeking updates are encouraged to monitor the CFS official website, the CFS Bushfire Information Hotline, and local ABC radio broadcasts for real-time information. Social media channels operated by emergency services may also provide additional updates.
The Nangkita bushfire warning is one of several alerts that have been issued across South Australia in recent weeks, as the state deals with increasingly hot and dry conditions during the summer months. The heightened risk of bushfires underscores the importance of community preparedness and responsive action in the face of natural disasters.
It is currently unclear what sparked the fire. Investigations into the cause of the blaze may not commence until the immediate threat has been contained, as emergency responders focus their efforts on protecting lives and property.
While CFS spokespersons have not provided an estimate for when the fire might be brought under control, they continue to emphasise that the safety of residents and emergency personnel remains their top priority. The agency is also working in coordination with local police and other emergency response teams to manage the ongoing incident.
The CFS has extended its gratitude to everyone in the affected area for their cooperation during this time and reminded residents that bushfires can present rapidly changing and unpredictable circumstances. Those who have already evacuated are advised not to return to the area until notified by authorities that it is safe to do so.
This article will be updated with additional verified information when more details about the Nangkita bushfire are made available. Residents are urged to stay informed and to act responsibly by adhering to the guidance provided by fire and emergency services.
**References**
1. South Australian Country Fire Service (CFS): Official update on the Nangkita “Prepare to Leave” message.
2. ABC News: Coverage of South Australia’s bushfire warnings, January 2023.
3. Local government emergency response updates via CFS Bushfire Information Hotline.