Lives and homes are at risk in the Goldfields as firefighters work to douse an out-of-control blaze that has crossed a major highway.
A bushfire is threatening lives and homes in the Comet Vale area — north of Kalgoorlie — and residents are urged to leave immediately if it is safe to do so.
The alert was issued just after 7.10pm after an existing fire crossed Goldfields Highway between Broad Arrow and Menzies on Monday night.
People travelling along Goldfields Highway — and residents within the area — are urged by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions to immediately leave the fire zone.
“If you are north of the bushfire, return to Menzies. If you are south of the bushfire, return to Kalgoorlie,” an emergency alert said.
If people are unable to leave they must shelter inside their homes.
“You must shelter before the fire arrives, as the extreme heat will kill you well before the flames reach you.”
“Choose a room with two exits and water such as a kitchen or laundry.”
If a home catches fire and the conditions become unbearable people are told to travel to an area that has already been burnt.
“Protect yourself by wearing long sleeves and trousers, made from cotton or wool, and strong leather boots.”
People are urged to close all doors, and windows and ensure to turn off evaporative air conditioners. If possible, people should keep water running through the system.
The fire is moving fast in a north-easterly direction and has not been contained or controlled.
Goldfields Highway has been closed from north of Kalgoorlie to Menzies in both directions as crews remain at the scene.
Firefighters are currently stopping traffic as they await backup to douse the flames.
The Comet Vale bushfire is believed to have started from a lightning strike. The blaze was initially reported at 2.30pm before the emergency warning was issued on Monday night.
It comes after a horrific weekend for emergency services as crews battled over 100 fires in the southern half of the state.
Stay up to date with the latest bushfire alerts by visiting emergency.wa.gov.au