An emergency warning was issued at 1:43pm yesterday for the fire, which the CFS said this morning started in scrublands south of Port Lincoln on a 40 degree day.

Flames were fanned by strong north-westerly winds reaching up to 80km/h, with residents in the firing line near Stamford Drive, Kathai Drive, Noontina Drive, Hassel Read and Pine Freezers Road told to seek shelter as it was too late to safely evacuate.

Photo: Edward McCarroll/7 Spencer Gulf News SCA

“Do not delay. Do not leave or enter this area in a vehicle or on foot. It is too late to leave as the roads will not be safe,” a CFS emergency warning message said.

More than 80 firefighters in 26 trucks and eight aircraft were deployed to fight the blaze as it burned towards Proper Bay, where it engulfed some properties and set a waste management site on fire.

Photo: Tom Rush/Twitter

Residents were advised to keep doors and windows closed due to the risk of toxic smoke.

At about 4pm the CFS downgraded the emergency warning to a watch and act level due to a wind change and firefighting efforts.

Crews worked to control the blaze which the CFS this morning said has burned about 143 hectares and continues to burn around Stamford Drive and the waste management facility.

“At this time there is no immediate threat to life and firefighters are still working to fully contain this fire,” a CFS alert said this morning.

“There is still smoke coming from the fire ground and the waste management facility. This fire has impacted several structures within the fire ground and most of the smoke is coming from the waste management facility. Caution should be taken as this smoke may be hazardous.

“It is estimated that 6 structures, both industrial and residential have been impacted, however, several properties were saved due to the diligent and timely response by all emergency service personnel.”

Proper Bay and Western Approach roads have been reopened with restricted speed conditions, with the public asked to avoid the area if possible.