Emergency alert: Bullsbrook bushfire downgraded to watch and act

A bushfire in Perth’s north has been downgraded to a watch and act after children were forced to evacuate from a nearby school.

The Bullsbrook fire, which was first reported at about 11.35am on Wednesday, has been downgraded after firefighters managed to contain the blaze just before 3pm.

Residents bounded by Kimberley Street to the north, Ballybofey Loop to the east, North Avenue to the south and Letterkenny Road to the west have been reminded that a possible threat to lives and homes is still in place.

Earlier this morning, Bullsbrook College, located on Chittering Road was evacuated in the wake of the fire threat, according to a Department of Education spokesperson.

The blaze started near the intersection of Hurd Road, and Chittering Road and reached an emergency level alert just after midday.

It is understood the fire grew to about 8.7 hectares in size and was reported moving in a fast southwesterly direction and unpredictable manner.

A DFES spokesperson assured that “no property has been damaged”.

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services has urged residents to remain vigilant.

“If you are not prepared or you plan to leave, leave now if the way is clear”, the alert states.

“If you plan to stay and actively defend, do not rely on mains water pressure as it may be affected.”

“Close all doors and windows and turn off evaporative air conditioners, but keep water running through the system if possible.

“If you are not at home, do not try to return as conditions in the area could be very dangerous.”

Chittering Road has remained closed between Great Northern Highway and Ashton Road.

A bushfire Advice also remains in place for parts of Bullsbrook and Pearce, alongside a Watch and Act in the southern part of Bullsbrook.

The latest blaze comes on the first day of a severe heatwave, that is expected to throw temperatures into the high 30s across Perth for the next week.

The temperature reached 36C on Wednesday, with slight east to southeasterly winds.

There will be no reprieve. Firefighters will have their work cut out for them, across the next three days, with temperatures expected to reach 39C on Thursday and 41C on Friday and Saturday.

Visit Emergency WA, call 13 DFES , follow DFES on Facebook, listen to ABC Local Radio, 6PR, or news bulletins.