MIDNIGHT UPDATE: Firefighting efforts are continuing at the Tungatinah Power Station at Tarraleah, where a blaze remains uncontrolled three hours after it was first reported. The Lyell Hwy remains closed in the area.
The fire was reported at approximately 9pm and emergency services remain on scene. The fire is not yet under control, and firefighting operations are continuing. “At this stage, the extent of damage is unknown. A press conference will be scheduled early Thursday morning,” a TFS spokesperson said.
Hydro Tasmania says there were no employees or contractors at the station at the time and no injuries have been reported. “Our immediate focus is supporting the Tasmanian Fire Service and Tasmania Police as they work to contain the fire. We are providing detailed site information and assistance to emergency crews,” a Hydro Tasmania spokesperson said.
“At this stage, the cause of the fire is unknown. Hydro Tasmania’s power system continues to operate securely and there is no risk to Tasmania’s energy supply. We will provide further information when it becomes available.”
EARLIER: Multiple fire crews are racing to Tarraleah where the Tungatinah Power Station is said to be “fully ablaze.” The Tasmania Fire Service says there is no threat to the general public but is advising people to stay away from the immediate area.
As of 10.45pm, Tasmania Police advise that the Lyell Highway is closed between Victoria Valley Hill Rd and Fourteen Mile Rd and motorists are asked to avoid the area.
A structure fire at the remote location was reported just before 9pm and crews were soon on the way from volunteer fire stations in the Derwent Valley and Central Highlands, as well as career crews from Hobart and Bridgewater.
The News understands that this includes units from New Norfolk, Hobart, Bridgewater, Bushy Park, Gretna, Hamilton, Ouse, Great Lake and Bradys Lake. Aerial platform vehicles (previously called “snorkel” units) have been dispatched from Hobart and Launceston.
Tungatinah is the newer of the two hydropower stations at Tarraleah and one of 10 major power stations in the Derwent hydropower system. The Lyell Hwy skirts the Tungatinah Station just outside Tarraleah and the five massive penstocks pass under the road, providing water to drive the five turbines and generate about 6% of the state’s power supply.
FROM THE TFS: Structure Fire Advice – Tarraleah – Monitor conditions
Issued at 10.20pm: Tasmania Fire Service is attending a structure fire at Tungatinah Power Station.
Smoke from this fire is visible in the area. There is no threat to the general public.
What to do:
If you are in the immediate area avoid exposure to smoke. Close windows, vents and doors and turn air conditioners to recirculate or off.
Non-residents should stay away from the immediate area.
Monitor ABC Local Radio and visit tasalert.com for further information.
Community Information:
For information on current road closures, visit the Tasmania Police website: police.tas.gov.au/community-
People at higher risk from the effects of smoke, including those with medical conditions, are advised to have a personal plan for avoiding smoke and managing their health. Advice is available from the Department of Health health.tas.gov.au/health-
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