Esperance bushfires: Two out-of-control blazes downgraded to watch and act

Out-of-control bushfires west of Esperance have been downgraded to a Watch and Act with residents of Coomalbidgup and Cascade being warned of a possible threat to lives and homes.

Residents on Beltana Road in Coomalbidgup have been issued a downgraded bushfire warning as a possible threat to their lives and home remains.

Firefighters on the scene are continuing to battle the blaze which is still out-of-control and unpredictable.

People have been advised to avoid the area and be aware of several closed roads.

A secondary bushfire in Cascade which was reported around 7.36am on Tuesday — about 40 minutes after the Coomalbidgup fire emerged — has also been downgraded to a Watch and Act. The blaze remains out of control and unpredictable.

Residents near Neds Corner Road, Grass Patch Road, Grigg Road, Belgian Road, Coomalbidgup Road and Cascade Road are still advised of a possible threat to lives and homes as well as burning embers likely to be blown around nearby homes.

“Do not wait and see, leaving at the last minute could put your life in danger,” the Department of Fire and Emergency Services said on Tuesday afternoon, referring to the outdated “emergency status” of both bushfires.

“Close all doors and windows and turn off evaporative air conditioners, but keep water running through the system if possible.

“If you cannot leave, you need to get ready to shelter in your home.

“Go to a room in your home away from the fire front and make sure you can easily escape.”