Australia: Authorities issue emergency warning for bushfire east of central Perth, Western Australia, Feb. 2

Event

Authorities have issued an emergency warning for a bushfire affecting parts of Chittering, Mundaring, and Northam shires and Swan as of the morning of Feb. 2. The fire began near Werribee Road in Wooroloo, approximately 50 km (31 miles) northeast of central Perth. More than 250 firefighters are battling the blaze, which has a perimeter of around 60 km (37 miles). Reports indicate the fire is moving in a northwesterly direction. As of 1000 AWST, the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) has issued the following warnings:

• Emergency Warning: Parts of The Vines, Bailup, Ellenbrook, Gidgegannup, Millendon, Walyunga National Park, Upper Swan, Aveley, Avon Valley National Park, Red Hill, Belhus, Baskerville, Herne Hill, Bullsbrook, Wooroloo, and Brigadoon

• Watch and Act Warning: Parts of Dayton, Ellenbrook, Upper Swan, Brabham, Hovea, Aveley, Stoneville, Wundowie, Middle Swan, Parkerville, Red Hill, Mount Helena, Jane Brook, Belhus, Baskerville, Herne Hill, Chidlow, and Wooroloo

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 recommended evacuations for residents in Emergency and Watch warning areas. Officials may extend or rescind warnings and evacuation orders over the coming days.

Transport and Utilities
The fire is causing road closures, including sections of Railway Parade, Tonkin Highway, and Great Northern Highway, 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. 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 nearby parts of Western Australia and contribute to ground and air transport disruptions beyond the warning area. Power outages are occurring in parts of several towns, 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
Western Power