Properties damaged as bushfire in Western Australia enters third day

At least two properties have been damaged in Western Australia (WA) as a major bushfire continued to rage on Monday.

In a statement about the blaze affecting the Waroona and Murray shires, WA Department Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner Darren Klemm said two outbuildings were lost.

According to the report, authorities are expecting to confirm further property loss today.

Ignited about 90 kilometres south of the state capital, Perth, the bushfire was initially reported at around midday on Saturday and has ravaged more than 3,000 hectares as of Monday.

Mr Klemm said the fire remained out of control and uncontained.

“The firefighters were successful in containing the northern flank through back burning; however, they are still facing variable winds and difficult terrain on the western side today.

“The fire is burning through steep and hilly terrain with thick forest and old-growth pine that is very dry and difficult to access,’’ Mr Klemm stated.

According to the commissioner, over 160 firefighters and support personnel are working to contain the fire, and one of their major tasks is to build containment lines around its 50-kilometre perimeter.

“The cause of the fire is accidental and is believed to be due to campers using a car battery to charge devices,’’ said Mr Klemm.

As the bushfire moving slowly in a westerly direction is still at an emergency warning level, the commissioner urged anyone who remained in the affected area to leave immediately for a safer place.

(Xinhua/NAN)