**Green Range fire: People urged to leave as fast-moving bushfire poses threat to lives and homes east of Albany**
Emergency services in Western Australia are urging residents of Green Range, located east of Albany, to evacuate immediately as a large bushfire continues to pose serious risks to lives and properties in the region. The fire, described as fast-moving and unpredictable, has already burned through substantial areas of bushland since it was first reported.
According to reports from the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES), the fire was initially detected on 26 October 2023 near the intersection of Palmdale Road and Gnowellen Road. Since its ignition, the blaze has intensified, fuelled by hot and dry conditions, and is being exacerbated by strong and erratic winds. Emergency alerts issued by DFES warn that the fire is moving quickly and could potentially endanger anyone in its path.
Affected residents within the warning area have been advised to leave their properties immediately if it is safe to do so. Those who cannot leave are instructed to shelter in place, away from windows and external walls, until the danger passes. Authorities state that the safest approach is to relocate to predetermined evacuation zones or to seek refuge in larger urban areas outside the bushfire-prone region. Residents who remain in the affected areas are being reminded that leaving at the last minute may be life-threatening, as fire conditions can worsen rapidly.
As of this report, the exact size of the bushfire is unclear, but DFES estimates that it has already burned through thousands of hectares of land. The bushfire has been categorised as “out of control and unpredictable,” indicating that weather conditions and terrain could cause significant challenges in containing the blaze. Fire crews from across the region are battling the fire with ground units, water bombers, and aerial support to reduce its spread, prioritising the protection of life and critical infrastructure.
So far, there have been no confirmed reports of fatalities, injuries, or significant property damage caused by the Green Range fire. Emergency personnel are working to assess the affected areas as safety permits and provide updated information to the public. However, the immediate priority remains the evacuation of residents in high-risk zones.
Western Australia’s Bureau of Meteorology has issued a warning for extreme fire weather in the region, citing elevated temperatures, low humidity levels, and persistent winds. These conditions are expected to persist for the coming days, potentially complicating efforts to contain the fire. Authorities have urged residents throughout the broader Albany area to remain vigilant and to ensure they have up-to-date bushfire survival plans in place.
Local law enforcement is assisting with road closures to prevent non-essential traffic from entering the affected areas. Roads around Palmdale Road, Gnowellen Road, and nearby intersections remain closed for public safety and to allow emergency services unimpeded access to the fire zone. Motorists are advised to follow detours and avoid travelling in the region unless absolutely necessary.
DFES has highlighted the importance of staying informed through official communication channels, including the Emergency WA website and local radio broadcasts, which will provide real-time updates on the situation. Mobile phone alerts have also been issued to residents within the fire zone to ensure that the evacuation message reaches as many people as possible.
The Green Range fire is one of several bushfires currently impacting different parts of Australia, as the country enters its annual bushfire season. Officials are cautioning that without significant rainfall in the coming weeks, the risk of further fires remains high across most of southern and western Australia.
Concerns have also been raised regarding the availability of firefighting resources, as crews and equipment are increasingly stretched across multiple fire fronts. Efforts are underway to coordinate reinforcements and additional support from neighbouring districts, though logistical challenges may slow the response in some areas.
The situation is reminiscent of previous fire seasons in Australia, which have seen devastating losses of life, property, and wildlife due to major bushfire incidents. Authorities continue to stress the importance of personal preparedness and compliance with evacuation orders to minimise potential harm.
Residents who have evacuated are being advised not to return to the area until given clearance by emergency authorities. Fire crews are expected to remain on the ground for days, if not weeks, to fully extinguish the blaze and prevent flare-ups once initial containment is achieved.
The Green Range emergency has had ripple effects on the local community, with some residents taking shelter in evacuation centres established in nearby towns. Emergency relief services are providing basic necessities, including food, water, and medical assistance, to those affected by the bushfire. Community organisations are appealing for donations to support displaced residents and assist with the ongoing recovery efforts.
Further updates on the Green Range fire will be provided as they become available. Residents are reminded to adhere to official advice and to prioritise their personal safety during this dangerous and evolving situation.
References:
1. Albany Advertiser: Green Range fire: People urged to leave as fast-moving bushfire poses threat to lives and homes east of Albany
2. Emergency WA website
3. Bureau of Meteorology, Western Australia