Toodyay bushfire: Improved fire conditions sees fire warning downgraded to watch and act

A bushfire warning for residents in West Toodyay has been downgraded to a watch and act but residents have been warned to stay alert.

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services downgraded the alert from an emergency warning about 1.30pm on Thursday for those east of the Avon River and north of Clarkson Road.

A DFES spokeswoman said the fire was contained and controlled north of the railway line adjacent to the Avon River.

“The alert level for this fire has been downgraded as fire conditions are improving,” DFES said.

Resident were still being urged to leave their homes as conditions could change quickly.

“You are in danger and need to act immediately to survive,” the warning said.

“There is a threat to lives and homes.

“If you find it hard to move quickly, leaving now is your safest option.”

Firefighters and water bombers are in West Toodyay actively fighting the blaze.

There were no confirmed reports of property loss.

The bushfire was first reported about 9.40am, moving in a west-south-westerly direction.

Toodyay West Road, between Julimar Road and the railway crossing, and River Road, between Julimar Road and Folewood Road have been closed.

Julimar Road, between Toodyay West Road and Harper Road, have been reopened.

Motorists are asked to avoid the area, reduce speed and drive carefully.

A bushfire advice warning is in place for people between Ridley Circle, Folewood Road and Telegraph Road in parts of Toodyay, West Toodyay and Coondle. Homes and people in the advice alert alert zone are not at immediate risk, but are urged to stay alert.