Wheatbelt bushfire: Bushfire warning near Northam downgraded to watch and act as firefighters fight blaze

A bushfire warning for residents near Northam has been downgraded to watch and act as firefighters work to strengthen containment lines.

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services downgraded the alert from an emergency warning about 4.50pm on Monday for residents bounded by Great Eastern Highway, De Castilla Road, Leaver Road, north of Wambyn Road and Spencers Brook Road in Copley, Mokine and Clackline in the Shire of Northam.

“Stay alert and monitor your surroundings as conditions could change,” DFES said.

“You may need to act quickly so ensure you are prepared if the situation gets worse.

“If you plan to stay and defend ensure you are mentally and physically prepared, with protective clothing and an independent water supply.”

The bushfire is moving in a north easterly direction and is not contained or controlled.

Water bombers and ground crew are actively working to fight the blaze, with firefighters working to strengthen containment lines.

A bushfire advice warning is also in place for residents living south of Great Eastern Highway and east of Spencers Brook Road in parts of Mokine and Clackline, Northam.

“Continue to stay alert and monitor your surroundings,” DFES said.

“Watch for signs of a bushfire, especially smoke and flames.

“Be aware of other potential dangers such as falling trees and damaged properties and infrastructure.”

A number of roads including De Castilla Road between Great Eastern Highway and Leaver Road, Hill Road, and Leaver Road between De Castilla Road and Wambyn Road have been closed.

Motorists are asked to avoid the area, reduce speed and drive carefully.

For more information, visit the Emergency WA website via this link.