Residents in Perth's southern suburb of Casuarina have been issued a dire emergency warning as an out-of-control bushfire rages, with authorities declaring it is now too late to leave the area. Firefighters are battling the intense blaze amid scorching temperatures that have soared above 40 degrees Celsius, creating perilous conditions.
Emergency Warning Issued for Casuarina
The Department of Fire and Emergency Services escalated its alert to an emergency level for residents bounded by Thomas Road, Bombay Boulevard, Newbold Road, Market Street, and Orton Road in Casuarina. This critical update was issued at approximately 3:45 PM on Monday, as the fire rapidly spread in a north-easterly direction.
The blaze, which was first reported around 3:00 PM, remains uncontained and uncontrolled. A DFES spokesperson emphasised the extreme danger, stating that evacuation routes have been compromised by the fire. "Leaving now will put your life in danger," the spokesperson warned, urging residents to take immediate shelter instead.
Urgent Shelter Instructions for Residents
Authorities have provided specific guidance for those in the emergency zone, stressing the importance of finding a safe room within their homes. "You need to identify a room where you can shelter from the approaching fire," the DFES spokesperson advised.
This room should ideally have:
- Running water, such as in a kitchen or laundry
- A clear exit for easy escape if needed
The spokesperson issued a stark warning about the timing of sheltering: "You must shelter before the fire arrives, as the extreme heat will kill you before the flames reach you." This underscores the lethal nature of radiant heat in bushfire situations.
Firefighting Efforts Under Extreme Conditions
Firefighters are actively combating the blaze on the ground, supported by several water-bombers operating from the sky. The firefighting operation is occurring amidst extreme weather conditions, with temperatures in the region reaching dangerous highs.
Near Jandakot, temperatures peaked at 41.3 degrees Celsius around 2:30 PM on Monday afternoon. Although they dipped slightly to 36.7 degrees Celsius an hour later, the conditions remain hazardous for both residents and emergency personnel.
Separate Watch and Act Warning for Anketell
A separate watch and act warning has been issued for residents in the Anketell area, bounded by Anketell Road, Thomas Road, Kwinana Freeway, Lilli Place, and Scowell Crescent. DFES has indicated that there is "a possible threat to lives and homes as a fire is burning in the area and conditions are changing."
For those in the watch and act zone, authorities have provided clear instructions:
- If your plan is to leave, leave immediately
- If you plan to stay and defend your property, ensure you are mentally and physically prepared with protective clothing and an independent water supply
The situation remains fluid and dangerous, with emergency services working tirelessly to manage the crisis. Residents are urged to stay informed through official channels and heed all warnings from authorities as this bushfire emergency continues to unfold in Perth's southern suburbs.
