As floods become a disaster on an immense scale on the eastern side of Australia, homeowners in the country's parched west are facing a totally different type of natural emergency.
Around 150 firefighters continue to battle a bushfire to protect homes around Lake Clifton, about 100km south of Perth, where
at least four houses have already been destroyed.
They battled through the night to contain the blaze, believed to be deliberately lit, after hundreds of residents in threatened areas evacuated their homes.
The Fire and Emergency Services Authority (FESA) said in a statement that firefighters had saved lives and more than 40 homes in challenging conditions.
FESA said the fire started at about 11.50am (WST) on Monday and had burnt through 2000 hectares.
A bushfire emergency warning remains in place for parts of the Lake Clifton area extending north to Herron in the City of Mandurah.
Firefighters early on Tuesday had succeeded in putting a containment line around the blaze but it was still described as out of control and they were watching the wind, with gusts of up to 50km/h expected.
Gusty winds will raise the risk of flare-ups and spotting ahead of the fire.
Firefighters were protecting homes in the Armstrong Hill and Tuart Grove subdivisions in Lake Clifton in the Waroona shire, where FESA and police advised residents to leave.
A relocation point has been set up at Waroona Recreation and Aquatic Centre in Waroona where dozens of people stayed overnight.
Many others went to stay with friends or relatives, taking with them pets and cherished possessions.
At least four houses, along with farm sheds, fences, powerlines and livestock have been destroyed in the blaze but thick smoke has prevented authorities from making an accurate assessment of losses.
FESA said the cause of the fire was suspicious with seven ignition points and the WA Police arson squad was investigating.
Of particular interest is a small dark green vehicle that was seen stopping regularly in the area.
Helicopters and fixed wing water bombers are assisting firefighters.
Several roads have been closed and motorists have been advised to avoid the area.
- AAP
