A total fire ban has been imposed across the entire state today as firefighters continue battling multiple bushfires on the West Coast.
State Fire Commander Matt Lowe said the ban would remain in place until 2am on Monday.
“With a dynamic weather situation forecast for the next 48 hours, including hot and windy conditions … declaring a total fire ban for the state is one action we can take to prevent further fires and keep the community safe,” he said.
“During the total fire ban period no fires are permitted in the open, including incinerators, burn-offs, campfires, fire pots and wood-fuelled barbecues.”
More than 150 local firefighters, eight bulldozers and 14 aircraft are currently deployed across the West Coast, with 41 interstate and international remote-area firefighters assisting.
Strike teams have been pre-positioned at “strategic locations” across the state, Lowe said, ready for a rapid response if required.
94,500 hectares of West Coast wilderness has been burnt, with the Canning Peak blaze remaining the primary concern for firefighters.
The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a severe weather warning for the West Coast on Sunday, with gusts exceeding 80km/h possible.
“Gusty north to northwesterly winds are expected across remaining parts of the state throughout Sunday, but are not expected to exceed warning thresholds,” the Bureau said.
“Winds are expected to ease below the warning threshold after sunrise on Sunday.”
