Authorities investigate cause of threatening grassfires on Sunshine Coast

An investigation has been launched into what sparked a powerful string of grass fires in Coolum on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast.

An emergency situation declared at 2pm was revoked just after 4pm due to rainfall and there is no longer a threat to property, the Queensland Fire Service (QFES) announced.

Emergency services remain in the area to monitor the situation.

“A smoke haze may affect the surrounding areas over the coming days. Residents should close windows and doors, and keep medications close by if suffering from a respiratory illness,” the QFES said.

All roads are now open, however motorists have also been warned to drive with caution.

The series of overnight grassfires were triggered by a large fire which threatened homes on Arcoona and Yandina Coolum Road.

Many residents were forced to evacuated their homes in the middle of the night as police conducted door-knocks.

“With a fire that close it was nerve-wracking,” homeowner Riley Korableff told 9NEWS.

Around 60 firefighters worked to contain the out-of-control blaze.

The exact cause of the fire is now being investigated.  

Regular updated information will be provided on the Rural Fire Service Queensland (RFS) website at https://www.ruralfire.qld.gov.au or listen to local radio.