‘Prepare to leave’: Residents cautioned as bushfires close in across Queensland
Several large and slow-moving bushfires have engulfed parts of one state, with emergency services urging residents to get ready to leave their homes.
Residents have been told to prepare to leave after bushfires in Queensland approach homes, with fears “conditions could get worse quickly”.
The Queensland Fire Department has ordered residents in New Moonta to ‘prepare to leave’ after a large and slow-moving bushfire began travelling towards Goyan Rd.
“Firefighters are working to contain the fire. You should not expect a firefighter at your door,” a statement read.
A prepare to leave warning has also been issued for Horsecamp near Gin Gin.
“A large, slow-moving fire is burning near Grass Tree Road, Michelles Road and Tableland Road,” the statement read.
The fire is currently moving towards Tableland Road, Grass Tree Road and Michelles Road.
“Conditions could get worse quickly,” the statement read.
There are currently 12 local government areas (LGAs) under a local fire ban across parts of eastern Queensland.
“This means all open fires are prohibited in these areas,” a QFD spokesman said.
The fire ban allows mowers and power tools to be used, but must be done with “extreme caution”.
“Keep equipment close by to extinguish any fires that may start as a result,” the spokesman said.
“If in any doubt, don’t light up.”
Residents in Takilberan have been urged to stay informed after a fire began near Gaeta Rd, with a warning declared between Gaeta Road, Habbermans Road, Wonbah Road and Four Mile Road.
“This fire is under control,” the statement read. “There is no immediate danger. Stay informed because conditions could change.”
A fire is also burning at Doughboy and Nearum near the Bundaberg region.
Several warnings have been issued for Doughboy, Wonbah, Mount Perry and the surrounding areas.
Firefighters are fighting fires on the ground and in the air on Hervey Range Rd, with a bushfire moving towards Hervey Range Rd and Sharps Rd.
“Major roads or highways may be impacted, including Hervey Range Road and Sharps Road,” a statement read.
A smoke warning is in place between Carmila to St Lawrence as bushfire ravages the ranges between Clairview and Carmila.
While no properties are at risk, residents have been told to stay inside and close their windows and doors.
“Smoke can make it hard for some people to breathe,” a statement read. “Smoke can make it hard to see when you are driving.”
Smoke is also currently impacting Arcadia Valley near the Dawson Highway, as a fire rips into the Expedition Range.
More to come
Originally published as ‘Prepare to leave’: Residents cautioned as bushfires close in across Queensland
