Overview
- Authorities upgraded the Dianas Basin–Stieglitz fire to emergency level on Wednesday morning, directing Stieglitz residents to leave immediately as the blaze moved toward Peron Street.
- At least two properties were destroyed overnight, with additional losses including sheds, water tanks and caravans, and hundreds of people sought shelter at the St Helens community stadium.
- TasNetworks reported more than 800 customers without power, with crews awaiting safe access to assess damage and restoration timelines.
- About 30 firefighters, 28 trucks, three aircraft and two heavy machines worked the fire overnight, with additional crews redeployed from across Tasmania and a high‑capacity Black Hawk helicopter expected to join.
- The fire began Tuesday, briefly eased overnight, then intensified again as winds and dry conditions complicated control, while Dolphin Sands has reopened after last week’s destructive blaze and broader heatwave risks persist across several states.