FIREFIGHTERS are battling a raging bushfire which is threatening lives and homes in the central part of Nambeelup.
A watch and act warning is still in place this morning for people in the area bounded by Yangedi Road, Elliott Road, Gull Road and Lakes Road.
There is a possible threat as a fire is approaching and conditions are changing.
Get in front of tomorrow's news for FREE
Journalism for the curious Australian across politics, business, culture and opinion.
READ NOW
The fire is stationary and contained but not controlled as variable wind conditions can increase the risk of a flare-up.
Burning embers are likely to be blown around homes near the burning bushland.
Firefighters are at the scene of the fire, which is burning in bushland between Bush Retreat and Greyhound Retreat.
Motorists are asked to avoid the area, reduce speed and drive carefully due to smoke.
The fire was reported at 08:18am yesterday.
Department of Fire and Emergency Services said about 171 hectares have been burnt in the bushfire.
WHAT TO DO:
If you are not prepared or you plan to leave, leave now if the way is clear.
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.
If you plan to stay and actively defend, do not rely on mains water pressure as it may be affected. You need to have access to an independent water supply, and start patrolling your property to put out spot fires.
If you are not at home, do not try to return as conditions in the area could be very dangerous.
SAFEST ROUTE:
If you are in Greyhound Retreat, head south along Greyhound Retreat to Lakes Road and head in a westerly direction.
If you are in Bush Retreat, head south along Bush Retreat to Lakes Road and head in an easterly direction.
KEEP UP TO DATE:
Visit www.emergency.wa.gov.au, call 13 DFES (13 3337), follow DFES on Twitter, Facebook, listen to ABC Local Radio, 6PR, or news bulletins.
During a power outage, your home phone, computer or other electronic devices connected to the NBN will not work. Include a battery powered radio in your emergency kit.
Updates will be issued every two hours unless the situation changes.