THE Department of Fire and Emergency Services has issued a bushfire watch and act notice for residents of Clackline in the Shire of Northam.
The alert level for this fire has been upgraded as property on Old Coach Road in under threat.
There is a possible threat to lives and homes as a fire is approaching the area and conditions are changing.
You need to leave or get ready to actively defend.
The fire started one kilometre east of Clackline and was reported at 11.14am on Tuesday.
It is burning south south east of Great Eastern Highway.
The cause of the fire is unknown and has burnt approximately six hectares.
The bushfire is moving fast in variable directions due to weather conditions.
It out of control and unpredictable.
Burning embers are likely to be blown around your home.
Homes along Old Coach Road may be threatened by fire.
If you are not prepared or you plan to leave, leave now if the way is clear.
There is ember attack ahead of the fire, so close all doors and windows, and turn off evaporative air conditioners, but keep water running through the system if possible.
If you are well prepared and plan to actively defend your home, make final preparations now.
Do not rely on mains water pressure as it may be affected. If you have access to a water tank and plan to defend your home, start patrolling with your hose and put out spot fires.
If you are not at home, do not try to return as conditions in the area could be very dangerous.
Your safest option may be to visit family or friends who live away from the area.
You should head away from the fire, towards Northam or Bakers Hill.
Avoid the area and be aware of fire and other emergency services personnel working on site
The following road has been closed.
• Great Eastern Highway between the Clackline townsite and Old Coach Road.
Road information may also be available from Main Roads WA by calling 138 138 or visiting www.mainroads.wa.gov.au or the Shire of Northam.
Approximately 25 Bush Fire Service, Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service and Volunteer Emergency Service firefighters are on the scene.
Firefighters are actively fighting the fire.
Aerial support has been sent to assist ground crews and protect property.
Visit www.dfes.wa.gov.au, call 13 DFES (13 3337), follow DFES on Twitter @dfes_wa, listen to ABC local radio or news bulletins.
Updates will be provided every two hours unless the situation changes.
