Australia: Authorities issue emergency warning for bushfire north of Perth, Western Australia, Jan. 5

Event

Authorities have issued an emergency warning for a bushfire in the Gingin and Dandaragan shires, approximately 100 km (62 miles) north of central Perth, as of the morning of Jan. 5. The fire bypassed containment lines the previous day and has since burned more than 2,000 hectares (4,950 acres). Reports indicate the blaze is moving in a westerly direction. As of 1000 AWST, the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) has issued the following warnings:

• Emergency Warning: Regans Ford, Red Gully, Cowalla, Moore River National Park, Nilgen, Mimegarra, Karakin, Yathroo, Orange Springs, Lancelin, and Ledge Point.

• Watch and Act Warning: Wedge Island, Mimegarra, Nilgen, and Cooljarloo.

Authorities have not provided an estimated containment date for the fire; favorable conditions may hamper firefighting efforts over the coming days, and additional fire growth is possible. DFES has ordered evacuations for residents at Ocean Farms Estate and recommended evacuations for residents in all other emergency warning areas. DFES may extend or rescind warnings and evacuation orders over the coming days.

Transport and Utilities
The fire is causing road closures, including sections of Indian Ocean Drive and Nilgen and Minegarra roads, in the region. The status of roads can change over the coming hours and days; authorities could close routes within the wildfire complex and evacuate more communities due to fire activity and response operations needs. Traffic disruptions are also likely during re-entry periods after authorities lift evacuation orders. Low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall could contribute to traffic delays and congestion in the region.

Smoke and ashfall from bushfires may cause poor air quality in parts of Western Australia. Low visibility could trigger flight disruptions at regional airports. Power outages and utilities that rely on electricity could experience outages within and near the bushfire complex.

Health
Smoke from fires is a mixture of gases and fine particles from burning trees, plants, and possibly building materials. Such smoke can hurt the eyes, irritate the respiratory system, and worsen chronic heart and lung diseases. Smoke may also worsen symptoms for people with pre-existing respiratory conditions, such as allergies, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Advice

Heed all evacuation orders. Seek updated information on road conditions if driving in the affected area; road closures and detours will cause increased congestion and delays. Individuals not under evacuation warnings should consider remaining inside well-ventilated, air-conditioned spaces to reduce exposure to smoke. Collect essential items - including identification and any important legal and travel documents - in a "go-bag" that can be easily accessed. Charge battery-powered devices in case of prolonged power outages.

Resources

Emergency WA
Bureau of Meteorology
Main Roads Western Australia