Gnowangerup bushfire: Bushfire warning downgraded to watch and act as firefighters battle blaze

A bushfire in WA’s south east has been downgraded to a watch and act level as firefighters desperately work to battle the blaze.

The Department of Fire and Emergency services downgraded the emergency warning about 7.10pm on Wednesday for residents in and around Corackerup Road, Cardininup Road, Holden Road and Cowalellup Road and surrounding areas in parts of Needilup and Cowalellup in the Shires of Jerramungup and Gnowangerup.

The blaze — which was first reported about 4.50pm on Wednesday — is not contained or controlled and is moving in a north westerly direction.

“Stay alert and monitor your surroundings as conditions could change,” DFES said.

“You may need to act quickly so ensure you are prepared if the situation gets worse.

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

“If you plan to stay and defend, ensure you are mentally and physically prepared, with protective clothing and an independent water supply.”

Firefighters are on the scene fighting the blaze.

A number of roads have been closed including Corackerup Road between Cardininup Road and Boxwood-Ongerup Road, and Cowalellup Road between Boxwood-Ongerup Road and Norman Road.

Motorists have been advised to avoid the area.