A bushfire watch and act alert has been issued for Muchea residents as flames tear through bushland and approach homes.
There is a possible threat to lives and homes and the conditions are changing.
Residents in the area bound by Byrne Road to the north, Great Northern Highway and Tonkin Highway to the east and Martin Road to the south, including the Muchea townsite – 40km north-east of Perth – are urged to stay alert.
The Department of Fire and Emergency Services issued the alert at about 11am on Monday. “If you are not prepared to stay and actively defend, or you plan on leaving, then leave now if the way is clear,” the warning says.
“If you plan to stay and actively defend, do not rely on mains water pressure as it may be affected. You need to have access to an independent water supply, and start patrolling your property to put out spot fires.
“Keep doors and windows closed and turn off evaporative air-conditioners, but keep water running through the system if possible.
“If you are not at home, do not try to return as conditions in the area could be very dangerous.”
Roads have not yet been closed.
Motorists are asked to avoid the area, reduce speed and drive carefully due to smoke.
The fire was reported at about 10.20am on Monday.
For the most up-to-date information, visit Emergency WA, follow DFES on Facebook, listen to ABC Local Radio, 6PR or news bulletins.