Ferndale bushfire threat reduced as residents told to evacuate

An emergency bushfire burning dangerously close to homes in the Perth southern suburb of Ferndale has had its threat downgraded.

The blaze was reported at 4am Thursday morning, with residents near Canning River told to evacuate their properties.

“You are in danger and need to act immediately to survive. There is a threat to lives and homes,” the Department of Fire and Emergency Services alert read.

The emergency zone included people west of Canning River between Nicholson Road, Metcalfe Road, Latham Road and Willcock Street.

Four houses were under direct threat, with one resident’s backyard on fire, however DFES at 8am said there was no longer a threat to homes or lives and downgraded the fire to a watch and act.

Residents who evacuated are being told it remains unsafe to return due to fallen trees and powerlines.

The fire is not yet controlled or contained with embers blowing around the area.

Its cause is still yet to be determined.

Nicholson Road is closed near the blaze.