Authorities have expanded their emergency warning and evacuation centres have been opened for an out of control fire threatening properties north of Geraldton as a turn in the wind pushes the blaze further north along the coast.
The Department of Fire and Emergency Services issued an initial emergency warning just after 2 pm on Sunday as the fire — which started about three hours earlier surged out of control.
A DFES spokesperson has confirmed homes are under threat as firies battle to protect several properties on both sides of the highway.
The emergency warning — which urges people to find shelter as it is too late to leave — has now expanded to include both sides of North West Coastal Highway, south of Coronation Beach Road and Nanson-Howatharra Road.
Anyone in the emergency warning area is urged to shelter in their homes, in a room away from the fire front where they can easily escape.
The blaze remains unpredictable as it moves in a north-westerly direction after a change in the wind, which was previously pushing it west.
As a part of their warnings, authorities have issued a “watch and act” alert to anyone west of North West Coastal Highway to the coastline from the Starling Road and Yarra Road intersection to the south and Hatch Road and Woolawar Road.
Those in the “watch and act” zone are urged to leave if the way is clear and they do not have a plan to defend their property.
Burning embers were likely to be blown around homes with anyone in the area urged to keep windows closed and evaporative air conditioners off.
Parts of North West Coastal Highway, between Northampton and Four Forty Roadhouse have been shut to travellers with motorists cautioned to avoid the area and drive carefully because of smoke.
Road closures also include Nanson-Howatharra Road, Olsen Road, Oakajee Road, Wells Road and Coronation Beach Road.
An evaluation centre has been opened at Queen Elizabeth II Community Centre on Durlacher Road in Geralton for those displaced from their homes.
People travelling with caravans and camper trailers are being directed to a separate evacuation area at Francis Street Boatramp and Carpark, in Geraldton.
The latest information is available from Main Roads WA by visiting the Main Roads Travel Map, calling 138 138 or contacting your Local Government Authority.
