Authorities have issued a stark warning to Western Australians, urging them to brace for a summer of increased bushfire danger across several key regions. The alert comes as official forecasts point to a dangerous combination of environmental factors.
High-Risk Zones Identified in Official Outlook
The critical warning was detailed in the Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for summer, released by the Australian and New Zealand Council for Fire and Emergency Services. The report, published on Thursday, 27 November 2025, specifically highlights an increased fire risk for the Yalgoo, Geraldton Sandplains, Swan Coastal Plain, Jarrah Forest, Esperance Plains, and Mallee regions.
The analysis reveals that heavy spring rains in some areas, while beneficial for soil moisture, have paradoxically increased the threat. This rainfall has led to a significant growth of grass and shrubs, which now act as abundant fuel for potential fires. When combined with predicted warmer-than-average temperatures and a low chance of substantial summer rain, the overall risk is significantly amplified.
Regional Threats and Contributing Factors
The fire risk is not uniform, with different dangers present across the state. In the Yalgoo and Geraldton Sandplains, the problem stems from above-average spring rainfall that has dramatically increased surface fuels in grassy woodlands and shrublands.
Conversely, in the northern Swan Coastal Plain and Jarrah Forest, the threat comes from older vegetation that has dried out due to a prolonged lack of rain. Parts of the Esperance Plains and Mallee regions are also at high risk because of dry soils and an expectation of below-average summer rainfall.
Additionally, some desert areas, including the Little Sandy and Gibson Deserts and parts of the eastern Pilbara, are expected to face a higher fire risk in the early part of the summer season.
Official Calls for Immediate Preparedness
Department of Fire and Emergency Services Deputy Commissioner Craig Waters emphasised that the warning should not be ignored by anyone, even those outside the specifically named high-risk zones. He stressed that more than 93 per cent of Western Australia is classified as bushfire prone.
"We need everyone to be prepared to be safe this summer," Mr Waters said. He urged all residents to ensure they have a bushfire plan and to stay informed about conditions via the Emergency WA app or website.
The call for readiness was echoed at a federal level. Emergency Management Minister Kristy McBain stated that the Albanese Government, through the National Emergency Management Agency, is preparing to support states and territories. She encouraged Australians to make safety a part of their summer holiday planning.
"Take the time to prepare your homes for the types of hazards you could face, and ensure you’re ready to act, should a disaster strike," Minister McBain advised. With a warmer-than-average summer forecast, vigilance and property preparation are now considered absolutely crucial for community safety.
