The Department of Fire and Emergency Services have downgraded a bushfire warning for Woodvale, in Perth’s north, from “leave now” to “watch and act” – but residents have been told to stay updated in case conditions change.
DFES first issued the Leave Now emergency broadcast on Sunday at 1.37pm, saying Yellagonga Regional Park was closed and anyone still in the park needed to leave. The updated warning went out at 2.45pm.
“A Bushfire Watch and Act is in place for people in Yellagonga Regional Park in an area bounded by Ocean Reef Road, Trappers Drive, Castlegate Way, the western edge of Yellagonga Regional Park, Whitfords Avenue and Wanneroo Road in parts of Woodvale in the Cities of Wanneroo and Joondalup,” DFES said.
“The alert level for this fire has been downgraded as the fire is now stationary.
“There is still a possible threat to lives and homes as a fire is burning in the area and conditions are changing.”
Fire crews are battling the blaze and Woodvale Drive is closed until further updates. More information may be available from Main Roads WA by visiting the Main Roads Travel Map, calling 138 138.
Motorists are asked to avoid the area, reduce speed, drive carefully and beware of smoke in the area and native animals fleeing the bushland into suburban areas.
The WA DFES has outlined the following steps if you’re in the Woodvale area:
- Stay alert and monitor your surroundings as conditions could change.
- You may need to act quickly so ensure you are prepared if the situation gets worse.
- Read through your bushfire plan. If you do not have a plan, make one by visiting My Bushfire Plan.
- Have your emergency kit ready.
- If you find it hard to move quickly, leaving now is your safest option.
- Keep your doors and windows closed to keep out smoke.