The Tasmania Fire Service has confirmed that a bushfire at Dolphin Sands destroyed 19 homes and damaged 40 properties, with a total of 195 assets damaged or destroyed. The blaze has been contained, but severe weather is forecast from Monday, with winds potentially reaching 100 kilometers per hour.
Emergency Services Commissioner Jeremy Smith said authorities had notified most owners of properties claimed by the blaze, but a small number had not yet been identified. The Bureau of Meteorology's Luke Johnston warned of high fire danger continuing into Tuesday due to dry air.
Resident Rob Churchill said the 700-hectare fire crept within 5 meters of his home, and he saw several other properties burnt to the ground. Diane Bricknell, who evacuated, reported that her house survived but her shed was destroyed and the fire burned under her caravan.
Dolphin Sands, with about 180 residents, has experienced at least eight bushfires in the past 15 years. The community faces ongoing fire threats, with only one access road in and out, increasing the risk of residents becoming trapped.
