Bushfire threatens Pilbara homes
A bushfire is threatening lives and homes in the Pilbara town of Wickham.
The fire is burning in bushland to the west of the Hamersley Iron Railway Line.
A bushfire Watch and Act alert has been issued for people in Walcott Drive and adjacent streets.
The Department of Fire and Emergency Services said the bushfire is out of control and unpredictable.
People without a bushfire survival plan are urged to leave if the way is clear.
People planning to actively defend their home should make final preparations now.
Sunset through the smoke from the fire in #Wickham. Looks pretty, but not if we have to evacuate. :/ #Pilbara pic.twitter.com/DCt4Vf7wSb
— Wendy (@WendyBirdOZ) October 27, 2014
No roads have been closed and DFES advises people to retreat to the homes of friends and families.
“Avoid the area and be aware of fire and other emergency services personnel working on site,” it said.
Bush Fire Service firefighters from Roebourne and Point Samson, as well as Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service firefighters from Wickham, Roebourne and Karratha are on the scene.
DFES said the cause of the fire is suspicious.
Maximum temperatures of 41 degrees and higher have been recorded in nearby Roebourne during the past five days, the ABC reports.
For updates, visit www.dfes.wa.gov.au or call 13 DFES.
