Homes and lives are under threat from a fast-moving bushfire at Chittering, north of Perth.
The blaze in Chittering, about 60km north of central Perth, was first reported about 9.30am on Saturday and is rapidly moved towards Lower Chittering, population 2,400.
Western Australia’s Department of Fire and Emergency Services elevated the fire to emergency level about 10.30am, warning those in parts of the two towns were in danger and needed to act immediately to survive.
“There is a threat to lives and homes,” the warning said, which so far covers rural properties.
“Do not wait and see, leaving at the last minute could put your life in danger.”
Residents sheltering in place are advised to choose a room with two exits and water such as a kitchen or laundry.
Firefighters are on the ground actively fighting the fire and aerial support has been sent to assist.
A watch and act alert has also been issued for a west-moving bushfire north of Chittering that could threaten rural properties in Bindoon and Mooliabeene.
Several other blazes are burning at advice level across Western Australia, including in the coal-mining town of Collie where 80 firefighters have contained a fire that started on Thursday.
