Firefighters continue to battle out-of-control bushfire

Adverse fire weather conditions have resulted in intense fire behaviour, with firefighters experiencing no respite overnight and embers spotting more than three kilometres ahead of the fire.

Due to the size and severity of the bushfire, an additional Large Air Tanker has been requested from interstate to help bring the blaze under control.

Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner Darren Klemm AFSM confirmed that 59 properties have been destroyed by the fire.

“Firefighters have done a remarkable job in some of the most challenging conditions that we’ve experienced in the metropolitan region for some time,” Commissioner Klemm said.

“I want to thank members of the public who enacted their bushfire plan early and moved to a safer location – the fast-spreading nature of this bushfire is a reminder of how important it is to leave early.

“Tragically, 59 properties have been lost in this fire, and that number may increase as we continue to assess the extent of the damage.

“This will be devastating news for the owners and occupiers of these homes, and our thoughts are with them.

“The process of notifying homeowners will begin immediately, and DFES is working with local governments to provide support to affected residents during this difficult time.

“We are asking for the public’s patience while we assess further damage – many areas are still too dangerous to enter, and we will provide more information as soon as possible.”

Commissioner Klemm said it was critical that people who have evacuated do not return to the area until advised it is safe to do so.

“Despite the tremendous efforts of firefighters, this fire is not contained or controlled,” he said.

“People living within the Emergency Warning Area cannot return home – it’s too dangerous and you’ll be risking not only your own life, but the lives of emergency services personnel who may have to assist you.

“This fire should also be an urgent reminder for all Western Australians to visit mybushfireplan.wa.gov.au and create a bushfire plan today.

Key statistics

• 220 Career Fire and Rescue Service, Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service, Bush Fire Service, Volunteer Fire and Emergency Services, Forest Product Commission and Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, Forest Product Commission firefighters are fighting the fire.
• Firefighters are being supported by State Emergency Services volunteers, WA Police, St John Ambulance, Western Power and other support agencies.
• Over 8,000 hectares have been burnt.
• The cause of the fire is unknown.
• Three DFES Rapid Damage Assessment Teams are onsite and will continue to assess losses throughout the day.