Cluster of bushfires in Mid-West Gascoyne region prompts emergency warning

A cluster of fires burning in the Mid West-Gascoyne region since last week have flared up, prompting an emergency warning for people in the area.

People travelling on North West Coastal Highway in an area south of Overlander Roadhouse and north of Billabong Roadhouse in parts of Hamelin Pool, Coburn and Meadow in the Shire of Shark Bay are being urged to leave now if the way is clear.

“There are multiple fires burning in the area moving fast in a north-easterly direction,” an alert from the Department of Fire and Emergency Services said.

The fires, first reported to authorities last Wednesday, are not contained or controlled as firefighters battle the flames amid trying conditions.

Temperatures peaked at 39C in the area on Tuesday and remained above 30C as of 6.30pm in the evening.

Wind gusts exceeding 40km/h in the area threaten to fan the flames further as fireys build containment lines, assisted by personnel from Strandline Resources.

Bushfire advice is in place for people travelling along North West Coastal Highway north of the Overlander Roadhouse in parts of Hamelin Pool and Coburn.

“There are multiple fires burning on Hamelin Station and Coburn Station,” DFES said.

“Although there is no immediate danger you need to be aware and keep up to date in case the situation changes.”

Several roads have been closed in the area, including North West Coastal Highway between the Overlander Roadhouse and Billabong Roadhouse.

Motorists are being advised to drive cautiously as there may be smoke in the area.