It’s been a dramatic few days for Perth residents, with a bushfire scare in Ferndale and wild winds sweeping across the city, but conditions have now eased and the immediate threat has passed.
In the early hours of Thursday morning, a fast-moving bushfire in Ferndale escalated to an emergency warning just before 5am, forcing residents to evacuate as flames and embers came dangerously close to homes.
More than 80 firefighters, both career and volunteer, backed by aerial support, worked through the morning to contain the 22-hectare blaze. Thanks to their efforts, the fire was brought under control by late morning.
While the cause remains unknown, crews spent the day reinforcing containment lines and mopping up the area. Roads have since reopened, although motorists are still urged to slow down and drive with care, especially along Nicholson Road where reduced speed limits remain in place.
As if the fire wasn’t enough, severe weather rolled in on Friday night. Strong winds battered parts of the Perth Metropolitan area, with gusts reaching up to 94 kilometres per hour at Gooseberry Hill and 91 kilometres per hour at Perth Airport.
The Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) confirmed that the Damaging Winds Advice has now been downgraded and the threat is reduced. There is no longer any risk to the community.
Emergency crews, including DFES and SES, responded to around 34 calls for help—mostly for fallen trees and damage to buildings. Residents are still urged to check for any damage around their homes and stay clear of downed powerlines, which should always be treated as live.
Anyone with significant property damage, like a damaged roof, is encouraged to contact the SES on 132 500 for temporary repairs.
No further updates will be issued for this incident, but information remains available at emergency.wa.gov.au or via the Emergency WA app.
