'Possible threat to lives and homes' as uncontained fire burns near Geraldton
Lives and homes may be at risk despite an emergency bushfire warning for multiple communities in Western Australia being downgraded.
Firefighters were tonight still battling to contain the fire burning outside Geraldton, about 350 kilometres north of Perth.
An emergency warning issued about 2.30pm (5.30pm AEDT) warned residents in parts of Ellendale, Minnenooka and Walkaway it was too late to leave.
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Residents in parts of Ellendale, Minnenooka and Walkaway, near Geraldton in Western Australia, were warned of a nearby bushfire on Thursday, January 23, 2025. 9News
Lives and homes may be at risk despite an emergency bushfire warning for multiple communities in Western Australia being downgraded. 9News
"Fire has impacted evacuation routes and leaving now will put your life in danger," the Department of Fire and Emergency Services advised.
It was lifted about three hours later and replaced with a watch and act alert but authorities continued to warn there was a "possible threat to lives and homes".
Firefighters were actively battling the blaze as it headed to the south-east but it was not contained or controlled.
Minnenooka Road was closed between Arthur Road and Woolanooka Road and drivers were asked to avoid the area.
The cause of the fire has not been determined and the arson squad is investigating.
Minnenooka Road was closed between Arthur Road and Woolanooka Road and drivers were asked to avoid the area. 9News
Residents in surrounding suburbs were asked to monitor conditions.
Visit the DFES website for the latest updates and advice,
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