Key Takeaways
- Bushfires have erupted across the State, destroying property and forcing residents to evacuate
- Several blazes are currently burning, with residents in Waggrakine and Moresby near Geraldton being told that homes are under threat by fire
- Firefighters are bracing for worse conditions on Monday, with temperatures set to reach 37C in Perth
- The community is being urged to be vigilant and not complacent, with a "long summer" ahead
- Bushfire plans need to be in place, and residents need to be aware of their surroundings to ensure safety
Introduction to the Bushfire Season
The first major bushfires of the season have put firefighters to the test, with several blazes erupting across the State. The fires have destroyed property and forced residents to evacuate, with temperatures reaching the mid-30s. In Morangup, south west of Toodyay, sheds and a vehicle at a property were reduced to twisted metal after being engulfed by flames. The Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) dispatched a dozen firefighters and aerial support, which helped halt the spread of the fire.
Bushfire in Toodyay
The fire in Toodyay was reported at 2pm on Sunday, and by 3:45pm, the spread of the fire had been halted. However, not before structural damage was contained to one property, including a shed being used as a residence, nine small sheds, a car, and a water tank. DFES Assistant Commissioner Danny Mosconi stated that the damage was limited to one property, and the fire was brought under control quickly. The cause of the fire is still unknown, but it is a stark reminder of the dangers of bushfires and the importance of being prepared.
Bushfire in Waggrakine and Moresby
In Waggrakine and Moresby, near Geraldton, people living in parts of the area have been told that homes are currently under threat by fire and that it is too late to leave. Residents bounded by North West Coastal Highway, Mary Street, Collins Road, Sutcliffe Road, and Nerrel Street have been told they are in danger and need to act immediately to survive. The fire was reported at 10:30am, and it is moving fast in a northerly direction. Over 5,500 homes are without power in suburbs including Spalding, Bluff Point, and Woorree. An evacuation centre has been set up at the QEII Seniors and Community Centre in Geraldton.
Other Bushfires
Another blaze is burning in Cullalla and Mooliabeenee in the Shire of Chittering. DFES issued an emergency warning, but it has since been downgraded to a watch and act level. People in the area bounded by Cook Road, Cullalla Road, Barn Road, and Bindoon Moora Road have been told to stay alert. The fire was reported at 11:10am, and firefighters are working to bring it under control. Speaking in Gingin, DFES incident controller Phil Hay said that when crews first arrived, the blaze was rapidly escalating with flames up to 3m high and was moving at 1.5km/h.
Firefighter Efforts and Preparations
Firefighters are bracing for even worse conditions on Monday, with the mercury set to reach 37C in Perth. Mr. Hay urged community members to be vigilant and not to be complacent with a "long summer" ahead. He stated that the community has really got to make sure they have their bushfire plans in place and be aware of their surroundings. The firefighters’ efforts have been commendable, with a number of homes being directly in the line of fire, but only minor damage was reported to a donga. The cause of the fire is still unknown, but it is a reminder of the importance of being prepared and having a plan in place.
Conclusion and Preparations for the Future
The bushfires have been a stark reminder of the dangers of the fire season and the importance of being prepared. The community is being urged to be vigilant and not complacent, with a "long summer" ahead. Bushfire plans need to be in place, and residents need to be aware of their surroundings to ensure safety. The firefighters’ efforts have been commendable, and their hard work and dedication are appreciated. As the fire season continues, it is essential for the community to come together and support each other, and to be prepared for any situation that may arise.
