Port Denison bushfire: Blaze burning for six days flares up after jumping containment lines

A bushfire burning for six days is again posing a threat to lives and homes in the Mid West, flaring up after jumping containment lines.

The blaze has been burning in and around Port Denison since last Friday afternoon, with firefighters saving homes over the weekend after flames came dangerously close to properties.

The threat eased on Sunday, with the emergency alert downgraded to an advice warning.

However late on Wednesday morning, the fire was upgraded back up to an emergency warning after it had jumped containment lines, with DFES urging residents to leave now. Not long after the evacuation order was issued, the fire threat eased back down to a watch and act level.

The affected area is north and south of Kailis Drive, to Sea Ripple Avenue and to the coastline in Mount Adams, Port Denison and Springfield in the Shire of Irwin.

“The alert level for this fire has been downgraded as weather conditions have eased,” DFES advised.

“There is a possible threat to lives and homes as a fire is burning in the area and conditions are changing.”

The fire is moving in a north, north easterly direction and is no longer contained or controlled. It has razed 852 hectares to date.

About 50 firefighters are on the ground, with aerial crews sent to assist.

On Monday, DFES incident controller Brent Allen said preliminary investigations indicated the cause of the fire was likely a fault with electrical infrastructure near Teatree Grove.

A Western Power spokesperson said they were aware DFES was investigating the cause of the fire and they were co-operating with them to find answers.

“In accordance with our usual processes, Western Power is conducting an investigation into the incident,” they said. “As the investigation is still under way, is it not appropriate to speculate about the cause of the fire.”

For up to date information, visit the Emergency WA website.