Emergency Bushfire Warning Issued for Collie as Residents Ordered to Evacuate
An urgent bushfire emergency has been declared for the South West town of Collie in Western Australia, with authorities issuing a critical warning for residents to evacuate immediately. The Department of Fire and Emergency Services activated the alert around 1:30pm on Wednesday, as soaring temperatures surpassed 37 degrees Celsius, creating extreme fire danger conditions.
Immediate Danger to Lives and Homes
The emergency warning zone is bounded by McVee Road, the Horse Race Track, Collie-Preston Road, and Gane Road. Residents within this area have been instructed to leave without delay, heading in a northerly direction towards the Collie town-site for safety.
A spokesperson for emergency services emphasised the severity of the situation, stating, "You are in danger and need to act immediately to survive. There is a threat to lives and homes."
Officials have urged people not to adopt a wait-and-see approach, warning that delaying evacuation could put lives at risk. Residents are advised to seek refuge with family or friends away from the affected area if it is safe to travel.
Firefighters Battle Blaze as It Spreads
The bushfire was first reported around 1pm on Wednesday and is currently moving in a south-westerly direction. Firefighters are actively combating the inferno on the ground, with water bombers deployed to assist crews in containing the spread.
The combination of high temperatures and dry conditions has escalated the fire threat, prompting a swift response from emergency services. Residents are reminded to monitor official updates and follow evacuation instructions precisely to ensure their safety.
This developing situation underscores the critical importance of heeding emergency warnings during Australia's bushfire season, as conditions can change rapidly. Further updates are expected as firefighting efforts continue throughout the day.
