A fast-moving bushfire has triggered an emergency evacuation order for residents in parts of the Shire of Gingin, north of Perth, as firefighters battle to contain the blaze under extreme heat.
Emergency Warning Issued for Cowalla Area
The Department of Fire and Emergency Services escalated the threat level to an emergency warning on Thursday afternoon. The alert, issued at approximately 2.20pm, is for people within an area bounded by Moore River, Millbank Road, and Cowalla Road in Cowalla.
Homes on Bidaminna Place and Millbank Road are directly under threat from the advancing flames. Authorities have instructed residents to leave immediately in a northerly or southerly direction, but only if it is safe to do so.
"You are in danger and need to act immediately to survive," a DFES spokesperson warned. "There is a threat to lives and homes. Do not wait and see, leaving at the last minute could put your life in danger."
Fire Behaviour Intensifies in Scorching Heat
The fire was first reported around 1.25pm on Thursday. Since then, it has burnt through approximately 150 hectares of land and is moving in a south-easterly direction. Fire behaviour is reported to be increasing, prompting the urgent upgrade of the alert.
A separate bushfire Watch and Act alert is also active for locals in an area bound by Cowalla Road, Duringen Road, Moore River National Park, and Orange Springs Road.
"The alert level for this fire has been upgraded as fire behaviour is increasing," the DFES spokesperson confirmed. "There is a possible threat to lives and homes as a fire is burning in the area and conditions are changing. If your plan is to leave, leave now."
Community Urged to Avoid Area
Motorists have been strongly advised to avoid the fire-affected region. Those who must travel are urged to reduce speed and drive with extreme caution due to poor visibility and potential hazards from emergency vehicles.
The firefighting efforts are being hampered by a severe heatwave. The temperature in Gingin soared to a blistering 41.4 degrees Celsius on Thursday afternoon, contributing to the dangerous and volatile fire conditions across the state's south.
Residents are urged to stay informed through official DFES channels and heed all advice as the situation develops.
