Significant damage expected as SA's Kangaroo Island continues to burn

Firefighters are continuing to work on the fatal Kangaroo Island bushfire that has blackened more than 155,000 hectares.

Kangaroo Island's Ravine fire is seen from the air.

A deadly bushfire swept through Kangaroo Island on Saturday. Source: CFA

Hundreds of firefighters are continuing to work on the blaze that has devastated Kangaroo Island with more than 155,000 hectares blackened and the fire yet to be fully contained.

The inferno has also claimed the lives of well-known outback pilot Dick Lang, 78, and his son, Adelaide surgeon Clayton Lang, 43.
Dick Lang and his youngest son, Clayton, have died in bushfires on Kangaroo Island.
Dick Lang and his youngest son, Clayton, have died in bushfires on Kangaroo Island. Source: Supplied
They were caught by the flames as they were returning to their family property after battling the fire for two days. Their bodies were found in and near their burnt-out car.

An advice message remains in place for the bushfire, the perimeter of which stretches more than 300km.

Its eastern edge runs from west of Vivonne Bay, on the south coast of the island, to Stokes Bay on the north coast.

The fire has also devastated large parts of the Flinders Chase National Park.

Significant home and property losses are expected, with considerable damage to tourism and service infrastructure.
The Country Fire Service says conditions across the fire ground have eased but crews will continue working for some time.

The CFS has also cautioned residents to be aware of hazards as they return to their homes.

"Watch out for falling trees, burning trees and underground roots, damaged or blocked roads, fallen power lines, smoke, ash and possible asbestos contamination," it said.

"There are large patches of unburnt ground in the area and people need to monitor their surrounds for flare-ups and take action to stay safe."

A 24-hour relief centre remains operational at the Kingscote Football Club.


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Published 5 January 2020 6:36am
Updated 5 January 2020 8:07am

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