WA bushfire continues to burn

A LARGE bushfire continues to burn in Western Australia’s south with a watch and act warning in place for local residents.

The blaze in the state’s Great Southern region has blackened more than 32,000 hectares since being sparked by a lightning strike on Boxing Day.

It is burning within containment lines with about 175 firefighters on the scene in an effort to bring it under control.

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services said firefighters were building and strengthening containment lines and burning out pockets on the western side of the fire.

Approximately 100 support personnel including volunteers, Mainroads WA, WA Police, St Johns Ambulance, Department of Communities and Local Government representatives are also in attendance.

Areas still considered at risk include the Stirling Range National Park, northern parts of the City of Albany, southern parts of the

Shire of Gnowangerup, northeastern parts of the Shire of Plantagenet and eastern parts of the Shire of Cranbrook.

Many roads remain closed and motorists are urged to avoid the area.

Stirling Range National Park, Bluff Knoll Recreation Site, Moingup Springs Campground and Mt Trio bush camp and caravan park are also closed.

— For up-to-date information visit www.emergency.wa.gov.au.