Emergency Evacuation Ordered as Dangerous Bushfire Threatens Darling Downs and Hilbert
Residents in specific areas of the City of Armadale and the Shire of Serpentine-Jarrahdale have been issued with an urgent evacuation order as firefighters confront a dangerous and fast-moving bushfire. The blaze, which remains uncontained and uncontrolled, poses a significant threat to lives and properties in the affected regions.
Immediate Danger and Evacuation Instructions
The Department of Fire and Emergency Services escalated the situation to an emergency warning at approximately 4:25 PM on Monday. This critical alert applies to locals within the boundaries defined by Tonkin Highway to the west, Hopkinson Road to the east, Thomas Road to the south, and Rowley Road to the north, encompassing parts of Darling Downs and Hilbert.
Authorities have emphasised the immediate danger, urging residents to evacuate without delay if it is safe to do so. The recommended evacuation route is in a northerly direction along Rowley Road. A spokesperson for DFES stated unequivocally, "You are in danger and need to act immediately to survive. There is a threat to lives and homes." Residents are advised to seek refuge with family or friends in safer areas away from the fire zone, and warned against a 'wait and see' approach, as leaving at the last minute could prove fatal.
Firefighting Efforts and Road Closures
Firefighting crews are actively battling the blaze on the ground, supported by several water-bombers providing aerial assistance. The fire is reported to be moving in an easterly direction, complicating containment efforts.
In response to the emergency, a number of key roads have been closed to ensure public safety and facilitate emergency operations. This includes Tonkin Highway in both directions between Rowley Road and Thomas Road. Motorists are urged to avoid the area and follow official detours.
Extreme Weather Conditions Exacerbate Crisis
The bushfire emergency is unfolding under severe weather conditions. The Bureau of Meteorology recorded a peak temperature of 41.3 degrees Celsius near Jandakot around 2:30 PM on Monday. Temperatures remained dangerously high, lingering above 34 degrees Celsius as late as 4:30 PM, creating ideal conditions for fire spread and intensifying the challenge for firefighters.
Separate Watch and Act Alert Issued
In addition to the emergency warning, a separate bushfire watch and act alert is currently in place for another sector. This alert affects individuals in parts of Darling Downs and Hilbert bounded by Masters Road to the east, Thomas Road to the south, Hopkinson Road to the west, and Rowley Road to the north.
DFES has advised that there is a possible threat to lives and homes in this zone as a fire burns in the vicinity and conditions remain volatile and subject to rapid change. Residents in this area should stay informed, prepare to act, and be ready to evacuate if the situation escalates.
