Blaze dangerously close to theme park
A dangerous bushfire that threatened two popular attractions in Perth has now been downgraded to a watch and act alert but authorities are warning those in the area to leave if they do not have a bushfire plan ready.
The bushfire burning near Adventure World and Cockburn Ice Arena in Bibra Lake, in Perth’s south, prompted calls from authorities for people in the area and visiting the attractions to shelter in place.
It is understood the dangerous fire jumped North Lake Rd, which is a major route in the area.
The Department of Fire and Emergency issued an emergency warning shortly before 4pm.
“You are in danger and need to act immediately to survive. There is a threat to lives and homes,” the Department of Fire and Emergency Services said.
“It’s too late to leave, leaving now will put your life in danger.
“You need to shelter in your home in a room away from the fire front and make sure you can easily escape.
“You must shelter before the fire arrives, as the extreme heat will kill you well before the flames reach you.”
More than 80 firefighters, six helicopters and two water-bombers were sent to help control the blaze as it threatened homes and businesses.
Temperatures of up to 38.4C with wind gusts of up to 30km/h were recorded about 3pm in Bibra Lake.
Bibra Dr, between North Lake Rd and Hope Rd, and North Lake Rd, between Elderberry Dr and Discovery Dr, remain closed to motorists as firefighters continue to battle the blaze.
The fire warning has since been downgraded to a watch and act alert but people in the area who do not have a fire plan are urged to leave.
“If you are not prepared or you plan to leave, leave now if the way is clear,” DFES said.
“If you are well prepared and plan to actively defend your home, make final preparations now.
“If you plan to stay and actively defend, do not rely on mains water pressure as it may be affected.
“You need to have access to an independent water supply, and start patrolling your property to put out spot fires.”
The blaze was initially reported just after 2.30pm on Tuesday.
The bushfire comes as southern WA battled “extreme” bushfire conditions for much of Tuesday, with more than 25 schools closed across the state.
Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner Darren Klemm said firefighters responded to more than 100 incidents throughout the state on Tuesday.
