Warning downgraded, but alertness advised

The emergency warning level for this afternoon’s Yakamia bushfire has officially been lowered.

The fire, which sparked around 12.30pm on Wednesday, had its warning level officially reduced to bushfire advice, the lowest level of fire warning at 7:56pm.

Albany firefighters and volunteers arrived on the scene at around 1.30pm, shortly before the fire emergency level was upgraded to “emergency warning”.

Despite the downgrade, DFES still warned people in homes bounded by Hudson, Range and Galle Roads, and Agonis Gardens to act with caution.

It advised locals to remain alert and keep an eye on the area, close all windows and doors and turn off evaporative air conditioners, and to familiarise themselves with - or develop - a survival plan.

Heavy smoke remains in the area, as do firefighters, so it was advised residents drive with caution and watch for emergency crews.

Only residents are being allowed onto Callistemon View, while emergency services have blocked off several intersections in the area.

More than nine hectares have been burnt in the eight hours since the fire began, with the fire confirmed to have begun as a vehicle fire.

More than 50 firefighters and water bombers were deployed in mid-afternoon.