Fire near Perth Airport threatens homes

A bushfire has threatened homes near Perth Airport and thrown a plume of smoke across busy Tonkin Highway this morning.

Several residents have been evacuated from their houses after the blaze broke out just before 10.40am.

The fire was first reported near Guilford Green and Flintlock Court in Perth’s inner eastern suburb of Cloverdale.

A dramatic video posted online by Prahlad Rijal showed flames higher than homes along Whiteside Street

Mr Rijal said the fire appeared to have started in the backyard of a home along Whiteside Street with neighbours and bystanders told to leave the area.

“The flames were very high. There was a lady watering her roof and plants. She felt a tinge of heat,” he said.

“Around 20 houses are within a 100-metre perimeter from the incident.

“The fire and rescue responders are still there getting low flames under control and under charred trees.

“As a witness all I can say is authorities were quick to act and we are very grateful.

“I heard police telling my neighbours that they would be notified in case of possible evacuation (but) there was a swift and rapid response which saved the day.

“Nonetheless the fire was indeed big and posed threats to us.”

Department of Fire and Emergency Service officers have issued an advice alert for people bounded by Hardey Road to the north,Towie Street to the east, Whiteside Street to the south and Garbriel Street to the west.

While the blaze is contained, it’s not controlled and is “moving slowly in a north easterly direction”, according to DFES.

WA Police are at the scene assisting firefighters with traffic control and evacuations.

Main Roads have warned of reduced viability in the area and smoke over the northbound lanes of Tonkin Highway.