Bushfire threat as Perth sizzles
Fire crews are bracing for the threat of a serious bushfire today as Perth heads for its first day above 40C in almost a year.
The forecast maximum of 41C is expected to be reached by mid-afternoon, accompanied by gusty easterly winds in the Hills and thunderstorms possible by late afternoon.
The last time Perth's temperature climbed above 40C was on January 12 last year when fires ripped through Stoneville and Parkerville, destroying 57 homes. The temperature that day was also 41C.
The Department of Fire and Emergency Services will meet local governments and the Department of Parks and Wildlife today to decide if fire crews should be deployed early into the most high-risk areas as a precaution.
Similar action was credited with preventing big property losses during last week's Toodyay bushfire where one home and three sheds were destroyed. "It is important that everyone remains vigilant and immediately calls triple zero to report a bushfire," DFES Chief Supt of State operations Paul Ryan said.
The police arson squad is also expected to step up patrols of bushfire-prone areas, as well as monitoring known firebugs as an extra deterrent.
A fire that came dangerously close to homes and a primary school in Coolbinia yesterday is believed to have been deliberately lit, with locals reporting that teenagers had been acting suspiciously in the area shortly before the blaze broke out.
Water bombers were able to bring it under control quickly and prevent any damage.
Last night, firefighters were tackling a blaze in Araluen Estate in Roleystone that was burning in inaccessible bush along Canning Dam Road.
The fire remained a possible threat to lives and homes and was out of control and unpredictable.
Today's expected high temperatures prompted the Health Department to issue a warning about the danger of heat-related illnesses, especially for vulnerable groups such as the elderly and the sick. Anyone with severe symptoms such as high body temperature, nausea and a rapid heart rate should seek urgent medical advice.
