Emergency services have issued a critical alert regarding a wildfire situated on Stockwell Road in Blackmore, located to the west of Berry Springs. Residents who have not prepared for the fire are advised to evacuate immediately.
According to Bushfires NT, the blaze has already affected buildings as it approaches Mieland Road and Tuey Close. Residents in these areas are urged to implement their bushfire survival strategies without delay.
Additionally, a “watch and act” status has been declared for a rapidly spreading fire on Uralla Road in Katherine East. Residents in that vicinity are encouraged to take proactive measures to safeguard themselves and their properties.
This particular fire is advancing towards the Victoria Highway, lying between the rail corridor and Uralla Road. Residents to the south of Bicentennial Drive are advised to activate their bushfire survival plans as well.
A fire ban that applies to the Top End region has also been extended through tomorrow.
Reports indicate that some structures have been “engulfed” by the flames. Acting Chief Fire Control Officer Nathaniel Stanford informed ABC Radio Darwin that properties along Mieland Road are under significant threat.
“Fire crews are currently engaged in the implementation of tactical backburns to mitigate the fire’s progression, but our mapping systems are indicating spot fires ahead of the main front,” he stated.
Stanford noted that there have been accounts from the fireground indicating that some buildings have been “impacted and engulfed,” although he added that complete details have yet to be verified.
“Our primary focus right now is to stop the fire from reaching any additional structures,” he emphasized. “For residents who are unprepared for an approaching fire, we advise leaving immediately.”
He also urged those who plan to remain and defend their properties to ensure they are following their bushfire survival plans and taking all necessary precautions to protect themselves and their homes.
Stanford predicted that the fire would continue its spread to the northwest over the next hour, with a potential change in wind direction around 5 PM, which could alter the fire’s trajectory and affect other regions.
“We will ensure our communications remain current regarding the expected spread of this fire so that the community stays informed,” he assured.
Cindy, a resident of Blackmore on Stockwell Road, described the fire as “probably about three properties away” and remarked on its magnitude. “It’s just enormous; I can hear explosions from old cars on the properties as the fire moves through,” she told ABC Radio Darwin. “We have a fire engine, volunteer firefighters, and planes dropping water, so there’s a lot happening.”
