Fire slows, some relief

Kate Fielding, SOUTH WESTERN TIMESSouth Western Times

Weather conditions are offering some relief for firefighters battling raging bushfires near Harvey, but residents have been told to remain on high alert this morning.

Department of Fire and Emergency services are warning the fire could pick up during the day due to forecast weather predictions.

An emergency warning has been downgraded to a watch and act for Harvey, Preston Beach and Myalup.

Brunswick, Australind, Leschenault, Eaton, Roelands and Millbridge have been given the all clear, after a bushfire advice warning was issued yesterday.

The uncontained firefront is just 5km north of Harvey, but has slowed with calmer wind conditions.

Read more...

An emergency warning remains in place for east of Waroona, Hamel, Cookernup and Yarloop.

The fire is moving slowly in a south-easterly direction, according to DFES.

North-westerly winds are expected for the remainder of the day.

More than 67,000ha have been burnt by the fire, which started on Wednesday by a lightning strike.

The fire’s perimeter is bigger than 222km and 121 homes and buildings have been confirmed destroyed.

Get the latest news from thewest.com.au in your inbox.

Sign up for our emails