A devastating fire has broken out at the RAAF base in Gingin, north of Perth, as searing temperatures and gusty winds wreak havoc for firefighters. The blaze, which started on Saturday afternoon, is one of several significant fires to engulf the Wanneroo and Chittering areas, where temperatures surged to 41C shortly after 2pm. As the mercury continues to climb, homes and lives are under threat from the uncontrolled fire near Chittering, a town with a population of just 1,000.
The emergency warning issued by authorities is dire, urging those in the affected area to act immediately to survive. “There is a threat to lives and homes,” the warning states. “Do not wait and see – leaving at the last minute could put your life in danger.” Residents sheltering in place have been advised to choose a room with two exits and water, such as a kitchen or laundry, as they await the outcome.
More than 100 career and volunteer firefighters are battling the blaze, aided by aerial support. Meanwhile, a watch and act alert has been issued for a west-moving bushfire north of Chittering that could threaten rural properties in Bindoon and Mooliabeenee. Another fire was sparked in the Gnangara-Moore River State Forest near Pinjar, adding to the growing list of blazes across Western Australia.
Raging Fire Threatens Homes at RAAF Base in Gingin Amidst Intense HeatwaveThe heatwave warnings are particularly concerning, with large parts of the state forecast to experience well above average summer temperatures today. Perth itself reached 40.7C just before 2.30pm, marking the city’s first 40C day in almost two years. Marble Bar, a town in the Pilbara region, recorded a scorching 47.7C, making it the town’s 25th consecutive 43C-plus day. The record stands at 27 days, set in early 2005, giving residents a harrowing reminder of the severity of the situation.