Australia: Authorities responding to a building fire in Northbridge, Perth, Western Australia, Feb. 13

Event

Emergency crews are responding to a building fire on Wellman Street in the Northbridge area of Perth, Western Australia, afternoon Feb. 13. Reports indicate that the fire started at around 12:20 in the kitchen of one of the properties. Around 20 firefighting crews are responding to the incident and have evacuated nearby buildings as a precaution. There are no immediate reports of casualties.

Emergency personnel will probably remain in the area until they extinguish the blaze and complete an investigation into the incident. Road closures are affecting the vicinity of the affected building. Lingering, localized transport disruptions are likely until officials clear the site.

Advice

Avoid the area until the situation stabilizes and authorities give the all-clear. Seek alternative routes to circumvent the affected site, and allow additional time to reach destinations near the impacted area. Consider remaining indoors if smoke is heavy, especially if you suffer from a respiratory illness such as asthma, or conditions that lead to increased risk from smoke exposure. Eye irritation is possible; flush irritated eyes with copious amounts of clean water. Heed all official instructions including evacuation orders.