Queensland bushfire warning: Far North Queensland residents told to watch and act

Sweltering heat and gusty winds have sparked a large bushfire in the state’s north, and residents have been told to ‘prepare to leave’.

Residents in Far North Queensland were issued with a “prepare to leave” warning after a large bushfire was reported amid sweltering heat and gusty winds.

The blaze was burning in Mareeba, west of Cairns, and surrounding areas after midday with the alert from the state’s Fire and Emergency declaring it “could get worse”.

The fire was burning between Godfrey Road and Hastie Road, with residents from Rise Country Estate and Emerald Falls Estate needing to be ready to evacuate their homes.

Queensland Fire and Emergency has issued a warning to residents in Mareeba.

“Fire crews are working to contain the fire, with aerial support but firefighters may not be able to protect every property,” the warning said. “You should not expect a firefighter at your door.

PREPARE TO LEAVE: Mareeba bushfire as at 12.45pm Thurs 5 Nov. Fire is burning between Godfrey Road and Hastie Road. Rise Country Estate and Emerald Falls Estate prepare to leave: https://t.co/9wjdPdYW8t

— Qld Fire & Emergency (@QldFES) November 5, 2020

“People in the area will be affected by smoke, which will reduce visibility and air quality. Call triple-0 (000) immediately if you believe your property is under threat.”

A list of instructions for those impacted by fires can be found here.