New Blaze Emerges Near WA Border as Firefighters Tackle Major Bushfire Crisis

An urgent situation unfolds as firefighters are deployed to battle a new bushfire outbreak close to the WA border following a severe road train accident, while emergency services work tirelessly to protect lives and property.

P24 News Media

November 30, 2024

1 minute

New Blaze Emerges Near WA Border as Firefighters Tackle Major Bushfire Crisis

India

Firefighters are urgently being dispatched to combat a new bushfire that has ignited near the Western Australia (WA) border, following a serious collision involving a road train. As crews continue their efforts on an uncontrollable fire that has devastated over 70,000 hectares along the WA coastline, additional resources are being sent to the southeast of the state to address this latest threat, which has led to the closure of Eyre Highway.

The critical roadway is shut in both directions from Mundrabilla Roadhouse to Madura Pass. Motorists are cautioned to avoid the area until the situation stabilizes. Firefighters from Kalgoorlie are en route, and the highway is expected to remain closed for an extended period as authorities investigate the contents of the truck involved in the crash.

Meanwhile, a recent change in weather conditions has brought some relief to the firefighters on the coastal front, although a Watch and Act alert is still in effect for the Dandaragan and Gingin shires. Emergency services are on high alert given the fire, which originated from a tragic vehicle accident, could reignite. Residents who were evacuated from the fishing shack communities at Grey and Wedge Island are advised to refrain from returning due to potential dangers to their safety and property. Those who remained are urged to stay vigilant about changing conditions.

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) reported that the fire is currently advancing southward, with hundreds of firefighters working diligently to improve containment lines, conduct backburning, and monitor the situation. Aerial units have also been deployed to support ground-based crews in their efforts. The Watch and Act zone extends over 50 kilometers along the coastline, from the northern border of the Nilgen Nature Reserve, approximately 10 kilometers north of Lancelin, to just beyond the intersection of Indian Ocean Drive and Cervantes Road.

A press conference held by Agriculture and Forestry Minister Jackie Jarvis revealed that Emergency Services Minister Stephen Dawson will visit the fire zone to meet with local government officials, DFES personnel, volunteers, and staff from the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions. Jarvis acknowledged the positive news that the fire's threat level had been downgraded but expressed concern about an impending thunderstorm, which could complicate firefighting efforts.

“I have been informed that there is currently no reported damage to any homes or properties, and thankfully, we have not seen any loss of life,” Jarvis commented. “Minister Dawson is on his way to the fire zone today to meet with local authorities and, importantly, to express gratitude to the hardworking volunteers and officials dedicated to containing this fire. He is monitoring the situation closely and hoping the thunderstorms expected this weekend do not lead to a resurgence of the blaze.”

Earlier this week, injuries were reported among volunteer firefighters, with one sustaining non-life-threatening burns. Superintendent Damien Pumphrey from DFES advised residents to keep abreast of conditions and emergency alerts during a community briefing. “The weather forecast for Saturday and the coming days is quite unpredictable and not favorable, which may necessitate a return to higher warning levels,” he cautioned.

As part of the ongoing response, parts of Indian Ocean Drive and various surrounding routes remain closed, including Bibby Road, Wongonderrah Road, Meadows Road, Cervantes Road, and Munbinea Road south of the Cervantes Road intersection. An evacuation center has been reestablished at the Jurien Bay Sports and Recreation Centre, while access to Nambung National Park is currently prohibited.