UPDATE – 8.05pm
The Department of Fire and Emergency Services has downgraded a fire that started near Great Southern Highway in St Ronans on Thursday.
The fire is now contained and under control.
Although there is no immediate danger residents are urged to stay aware and keep up to date in case the situation changes.
The bushfire is stationary and DFES is monitoring it.
Great Southern Highway remains closed in both directions from Talbot West Road to Cut Hill Road in York.
6.30pm
Residents of St Ronans living near Mokine Road, Ulster Road, Great Southern Highway and Ashworth Road intersection have been urged to leave their homes as crews battle a bushfire in the area.
The fire that started near Great Southern Highway in St Ronans just after 3pm on Thursday is believed to have burned more than 130 acres.
The Department of Fire and Emergency Services has said if residents in the affected area are not home it is too dangerous for them to return.
DFES said people in the emergency warning area can leave to the north via Ashworth Road.
People in the watch and act area can leave on the Northam-York Road or Spencer Brook Road.
Great Southern Highway is closed between Ashworth Road and the townsite of York.
They said there is a possible threat to lives and homes as a fire is approaching in the area and conditions are changing.
DFES said if the way is clear residents are urged to leave, or if they plan is to stay and actively defend they should not rely on mains water pressure.
The bushfire is currently moving fast in a north easterly direction and is out of control and unpredictable.
