Bushfires in Western Australia have damaged homes and injured two men, triggering an emergency response. The blazes, which have torn through bushland, rural properties, and the suburb of Parkerville in Perth’s hilly east, are causing concern, with video footage showing flames and smoke billowing as water bombers work to contain the fire.
Paramedics transported two men aged in their 60s, one with burns that are considered non-life-threatening and the other with an injury to his foot. Premier Roger Cook expressed concern about the troubling situation, noting the unwelcome weather conditions that were making it difficult for firefighters to regain control.
The Parkerville fire, situated 34km east of the Perth CBD, has been downgraded to a watch and act status, while a blaze 60km northeast in the Shire of Toodyay has regained emergency level due to its uncontrollable spread. Similarly, an emergency warning has been issued for residents in the Shire of Dardanup, 180km south of Perth, as a two-day-old bushfire flared up.
In addition to the emergencies in Parkerville, Toodyay, and Dardanup, crews and aircraft are also dealing with a blaze in the Shire of Manjimup in the southwest, and another one in the fishing town of Lancelin. While some of these fires have been contained, they remain a threat, particularly due to the adverse weather conditions. The challenging weather, including strong easterly winds and thunderstorms, is making the situation even more difficult for the firefighters.