A dangerous bushfire in Perth’s south has forced the closure of a section of Tonkin Highway, with firefighters battling the blaze on both sides of the road and nearby residents urged to leave the area.
A bushfire watch and act alert has been issued for Champion Lakes, Gosnells and Armadale.
The fire sparked in bushland on the side of Tonkin Highway, near Corfield Street, at about 12.40pm, and quickly kicked off, moving in a north-easterly direction.
The Department of Fire and Emergency Services has advised people in the area bounded by Corfield Street, Lake Road, Champion Drive and Verna Street need to leave their homes now if they are not prepared to stay and actively defend.
The bushfire is out-of-control and “unpredictable” and is burning about 8km away from the Armadale Hospital.
About 10 DFES crews are on the ground working to contain the blaze, while aerial support has been mobilised and is due to assist.
“If you are well prepared and plan to actively defend your home, make final preparations now,” the alert 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.”
Motorists are also urged to avoid the area, as Tonkin Highway remains closed in both directions, between Champion Drive and Corfield Street.