National

Bushfires threatening farming communities downgraded

By AAP Newswire

Dec 11, 2023

A firefighting helicopter — Bushfires are threatening lives, farms and homes in WA's northern wheatbelt. -AAP Image

The alert level for an out-of-control bushfire that was threatening lives and homes in Western Australia's northern wheatbelt has been downgraded.

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A watch and act alert has replaced an earlier emergency warning for residents in parts of Howatharra, Oakajee, White Peak and Bowes in the shires of Chapman Valley and Northampton, near Geraldton.

"The alert level for this fire has been downgraded as fire behaviour has reduced," the Department of Fire and Emergency Services said in an emergency broadcast.

"Parts of North West Coastal Highway remain closed and the closure will be reassessed at 5pm."

About 100 firefighters are battling the blaze that is moving in a west-southwesterly direction.

It is contained but not controlled and crews are bolstering containment lines.

The fire was reported on Sunday and has burned about 1085 hectares of farmland and vegetation.

Western Power has advised 105 homes and businesses have had their power supply cut.

The Midwest region is home to broadacre grain cropping operations and sheep and cattle grazing.Â

By AAP Newswire

Australian Associated Press