Urgent bushfire alert in Manjimup, Western Australia
An urgent emergency warning was issued and residents were told they were “in danger” and “must act immediately to survive”.
Resdenits in Western Australia were on urgent alert overnight after an emergency bushfire warning urged them to evacuate, warning them they are ‘in danger’ and ‘must act immediately to survive”.
The blaze, which has been burning since Friday, is believed to have been started by lightning with more than 75 firefighters currently on the scene actively battling the blaze. Currently 4,200 hectares have been burned and as of Sunday evening it was uncontained, uncontrolled and slowly moving northwest.
Early Monday morning, the alert was downgraded to Watch and Act “due to forecasts of cooler overnight weather conditions and milder fire behavior.”
Authorities have urged residents of Manjimup County near Yeagarup, including Donnelly River Shacks in the southwest of the state, to evacuate if “the way is clear.”
The current warning applies to people near the Donnelly River, including Donnelly River Cabins and Boat Landing Road to Vasse Highway and Ritter Road in Nannup and Manjimup counties.
“There is a possible threat to lives and homes as a fire approaches the area and conditions change,” the alert reads.
Motorists are urged to avoid the area, reduce speed and drive carefully due to smoke. The smoke affects the Vasse and Sud-Ouest motorways.
Air support cannot operate in the dark and was released from the incident. If necessary, they will return to the first light.
The fire started near Ritter Road and Fly Brook Road.
“If you are not ready or planning to leave, leave now if the way is clear,” warn the authorities.
“If you are well prepared and plan to actively defend your home, make final preparations now.
“If you plan to stay and actively defend yourself, do not rely on running water pressure as it may be affected. You must have access to an independent water supply and begin patrolling your property to put out spot fires.
“Keep doors and windows closed and turn off evaporative air conditioners, but let water run through the system if possible.
“If you are not at home, do not try to return as the conditions in the area could be very dangerous.
“If you have been personally directed to self-isolate or quarantine due to COVID-19 and advised to leave the area, you have been told, ‘Find suitable alternative accommodation and wear a mask. Those in the affected area are allowed to move to suitable alternative premises without endangering others.
Visit Emergency WA for More information or call 13 DFES at 13 3337.