The Country Fire Service had two major fires to deal with yesterday, 23 December 2009.

The CFS advises that the weather now being experienced in Port Lincoln has significantly moderated with the wind and temperatures dropping.

The wind has moved to the South allowing fire-fighters to contain the fire. The fire is currently categorised as 'CONTAINED' however significant spot fires continue to burn within the fire boundary in the City of Port Lincoln.

CFS fire-fighting aircraft had experienced extreme flying conditions earlier, with turbulence and smoke making it very difficult to attack the fire.

The power has been restored to most of the Port Lincoln area.

CFS has committed adequate resources overnight to bring the fire under control. Nine houses have been confirmed as destroyed and other property has been damaged, but no reports have been received of injury to members of the public.

CFS reiterates that this fire has demonstrated just how quickly a bushfire can take hold in conditions such as experienced on Wednesday 23 December 2009. CFS again reinforces that all South Australian residents thoroughly prepare their Bushfire Survival Plan well in advance of a bushfire and incorporate within their plan a contingency to leave early to travel to a safer place if not adequately prepared.

The South East fire near Taratap is categorised as 'CONTROLLED'. CFS crews will continue to patrol and mop-up the fire overnight. The weather in the South East has also moderated with temperatures falling and winds becoming lighter.

For continuing updates to the situation, stay tuned to the emergency broadcasters on ABC or 5AA on a battery powered radio.