Defence helicopter believed to have sparked bushfire to south of Canberra

A fire started by a defence helicopter landing in the Namadgi National Park south of Canberra has quickly become the city's"most serious" bushfire since 2003.Residents in Tharwa and the region surrounding the Orroral Valley south of Canberra are told it is too late to leave

Emergency Services say Canberra's southernmost suburbs of Banks, Conder and Gordon should enact their bushfire plansThe Orroral Valley fire is growing at a rate of more than 400 hectares per hour, and was more than 6,122 hectares in size at 5:30pm today. There is currently no threat to Canberra suburbs, but the blaze could spot as close to a kilometre to Banks this evening.

Chief Minister Andrew Barr said it poses the greatest risk to the ACT since the 2003 bushfires, which killed four people and destroyed hundreds of homes.Winds are now gusting northeasterly at speeds up to 40km/h, according to ACT Emergency Services Agency commissioner Georgeina Whelan.The ESA expects the fire to burn for several weeks.

"The fire started during routine aerial reconnaissance and ground clearance work being conducted in the area in support of our local firefighters and authorities," Emergency Services Minister Mick Gentleman said on behalf of Defence.

Best wishes to all Canberrans and to all under threat of fire, flood and other natural disasters.

This fire is traveling so fast. Stay safe South Canberra.

kellykels_melbs 6000 ha in a day ... if our crew heads down , have an Australian flag flying in your yard as your homes will be protected first 🇦🇺💪 orroralvalleyfire

Now too late to leave?

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