The Warnbro bushfire has residents on high alert, with a Watch and Act warning in place as embers pose a significant threat. The fire, which ignited near the Warnbro train station, has led to the closure of a train line and roads in the City of Rockingham. Residents in Warnbro, Coolongup, and Waikiki were alerted to the potential danger of ember attacks around 7:15 am on Tuesday, over 12 hours after the fire started.
The Mandurah line between Rockingham and Mandurah remains canceled due to the fire's impact. Transperth is operating replacement buses, urging commuters to allow extra travel time. Safety Bay Road and Ennis Avenue are partially shut, with specific sections closed to ensure public safety.
The Watch and Act warning emphasizes the risk of ember attacks, advising residents to be prepared. It states, 'Burning embers are likely to be blown around your home and could spark a fire. If your plan is to leave, leave now.' The Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) confirms that 100 firefighters are actively battling the blaze, which is out of control and moving in a north-northwest direction.
The fire poses a potential threat to lives and homes, and three separate bushfire advice warnings are in effect for Safety Bay, Waikiki, Coolongup, and Baldivis. Residents are urged to stay informed by visiting emergency.wa.gov.au. The key actions to take include preparing an emergency kit, deciding on an evacuation plan, and securing homes to prevent ember entry. This includes turning off evaporative air conditioners and keeping doors and windows closed to minimize smoke exposure.
