Pelham bushfire battle continues

Google Map showing the size and location of the Pelham fire in
relation to Hamilton, top left, and Gretna, bottom.
Click image to enlarge.

ACCESS to some roads at Pelham, Elderslie and Broadmarsh is being restricted to residents only, as authorities continue to battle the Pelham bushfire.

The fire covers an area of about 1800 hectares and has a 26km boundary and as of noon today remains at Watch and Act status.

The fire, which started near Pelham on December 30, may continue to put Pelham, Elderslie and Broadmarsh areas under threat today. The TFS asks those in the area to remain vigiliant and those who do not live in the area are advised to stay away.

Click here for the latest Tasmania Fire Service updates:
PELHAM & SURROUNDING AREAS
ELDERSLIE AND BROADMARSH

"Access roads are being managed by Tasmania Police with access for residents only,"  a TFS spokesman said. "Some roads are still impeded by fallen trees, power lines and other debris, so access cannot be guaranteed. Residents who wish to return do so at their own risk. Work is currently underway to clear these roads and make them safe."

TFS crews are working to control the fire and construct containment lines. The fire is still very active and remains uncontrolled. Pelham, Elderslie, Broadmarsh and surrounding areas may still be threatened with ember attack and residents are asked to be mindful of changing wind conditions.

Smoke and ash may make it difficult to see and breathe. Homes that are well-prepared for high risk fires should provide shelter to those who are in a position to actively defend their homes. Those preparing to leave are asked to make sure they have a clear path to a safer place.

The TFS says Pelham Rd (between Pelham Tier Rd and Clifton Vale Rd) and Horners Rd has been heavily impacted by fire. Impact assessments on potential property losses are still being undertaken.

"At this stage, the fire has been successfully held at Clifton Vale Rd, east of Pelham, and containment lines using heavy machinery are being constructed along Taylor's Tier on the fire's southwestern boundary," the spokesman said.

"The fire has crossed Elderslie Rd between Pelham and Bluff roads however that outbreak has been contained. Some uncontained spot fires remain on Summerfield Hill between Grahams Creek Rd and Bluff Rd and firefighters continue to work to extinguish these spot fires.

For information on current road closures, visit the Tasmania Police website: People with medical conditions are advised to have a personal plan for avoiding smoke from the burn.