PERTH, 06 February 2026 – Emergency services remain on high alert across the Perth metropolitan area following a week of extreme heat and multiple emergency-level bushfires. While several major blazes have been downgraded in the last 48 hours, authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant as temperatures continue to fluctuate and fire crews manage active perimeters.
Latest Fire Updates and Emergency Warnings
As of Friday, 06 February, the intense fire activity that gripped the city earlier this week has begun to stabilise. On Monday, 02 February, Perth recorded a peak temperature of 41.9°C, which triggered three simultaneous emergency-level bushfires. These blazes caused the closure of major transport arteries, including Tonkin Highway, and forced residents in the south-eastern and north-eastern suburbs to evacuate.
Recent developments include:
- Nambeelup: A bushfire sparked by a car theft early Friday morning (06 February) triggered an emergency warning at 5:00 am. Firefighters successfully contained the blaze by 7:39 am after it burnt approximately 3 hectares of land.
- Darling Downs and Hilbert: Emergency warnings issued earlier this week for areas bounded by Tonkin Highway and Thomas Road have been downgraded. However, fire crews continue to monitor the area for flare-ups.
- Casuarina and Bullsbrook: Fires that threatened homes and lives earlier in the week have been downgraded to “Watch and Act” or “Advice” levels. Authorities confirmed that while the immediate threat has eased, the risk remains due to dry conditions.
- Ellenbrook: Reports indicate that homes were damaged and approximately 15 hectares of bushland were destroyed in a fast-moving blaze in the north-east earlier this week.
Bushfire Risk Management and Planning
The Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) continues to implement the State Planning Policy 3.7, focusing on risk-based land use to protect properties in bushfire-prone areas. Residents are encouraged to use the current lull in emergency activity to review their personal bushfire plans.
| Policy/Guideline | Focus Area | Key Authority |
|---|---|---|
| State Planning Policy 3.7 | Land use planning and risk avoidance | WA Planning Commission |
| Bushfire Risk Management Plan | Local government mitigation strategies | DFES / Local Shires |
| Building in Bushfire-Prone Areas | Construction standards and retrofitting | Building and Energy (WA) |
| Private Equipment Guidelines | Operating private machinery at fire scenes | Bushfire Centre of Excellence |
Public Safety and Health Risks
Health authorities have issued warnings regarding environmental health risks following the recent blazes. Smoke pollution remains a concern for those with respiratory conditions. Additionally, residents returning to fire-affected areas are advised to be cautious of hazardous materials, damaged trees, and unstable structures.
Public sentiment on community forums like Reddit has highlighted the speed of the Casuarina and Darling Downs fires, with many residents noting that evacuation routes were impacted almost immediately after warnings were issued. This reinforces the DFES advice that “leaving late can be deadly.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if a bushfire emergency warning is issued?
If an Emergency Warning is issued, it means you are in danger and need to take immediate action to survive. If the advice is to leave, do so immediately. If it is too late to leave, identify a safe room in your home with two exits and water access.
Where can I find real-time fire updates in Western Australia?
The most reliable source for live updates is the Emergency WA website (emergency.wa.gov.au) and the DFES Facebook and Twitter pages. You can also listen to ABC Local Radio for emergency broadcasts.
Are there currently any road closures in Perth due to fires?
While Tonkin Highway has reopened following closures earlier this week, local road closures may still be in place near Nambeelup and Darling Downs while emergency services conduct mop-up operations. Check the Main Roads WA website for the latest traffic information.
Can I use my own equipment to help fight a fire?
DFES provides specific guidelines for operating private equipment at fires. It is essential to coordinate with local brigades to ensure safety and prevent interference with professional firefighting efforts, including aerial support which can be grounded if unauthorised drones or equipment are in the area.