Perth Fires Force Evacuations Amidst Scorching Heatwave, Emergency Warnings Issued
January 22, 2025Overnight, four fires erupted across Perth, with one significant incident prompting evacuations around 5 AM on January 21, 2025.
An emergency warning was issued for residents in Byford, Karrakup, and Cardup, leading to the establishment of an evacuation center at the Serpentine-Jarrahdale Recreation Centre.
The Karrakup fire, first reported at 1:25 AM, has since been downgraded to a watch and act status, although it remains uncontrolled and is advancing westward.
In addition to the Karrakup fire, separate structure fires in Armadale and South Perth also led to evacuations, including a fire that damaged a third-storey apartment in South Perth on the evening prior.
A fire involving hazardous materials was reported at Joondalup Country Club, believed to have been caused by a lithium battery in a golf cart, but all fires are now extinguished.
Firefighters worked tirelessly to protect nearby properties from embers, battling strong winds during their firefighting efforts.
Several roads, including Nettleton Road between Barge Drive and Coronation Road, have been closed, and motorists are advised to avoid the area and drive cautiously.
Residents with livestock, pets, and companion animals are urged to implement their animal welfare plans due to the ongoing emergency.
An extreme heatwave warning is currently in effect for the Wheatbelt and eastern suburbs of Perth.
Perth is experiencing a heatwave, with temperatures forecasted to reach 37 degrees Celsius on January 21, following an overnight low of 25.6 degrees Celsius.
Summary based on 1 source
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Source
WAtoday • Jan 21, 2025
Bushfire forces evacuations as Perth braces for third day of heatwave