Residents in parts of Darling Downs and Hilbert ordered to evacuate as firefighters battle dangerous bushfire

Residents in parts of the City of Armadale and Shire of Serpentine-Jarrahdale have been ordered to evacuate as firefighters battle a dangerous bushfire.

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services issued an emergency warning for locals bound by Tonkin Highway to the west, Hopkinson Road to the east, Thomas Road to the south and Rowley Road to the north in parts of Darling Downs and Hilbert about 4.25pm on Monday.

The bushfire is moving in an easterly direction.

It is not contained or controlled.

Locals have been urged to evacuate in a northerly direction on Rowley Road, if safe to do so.

“You are in danger and need to act immediately to survive. There is a threat to lives and homes,” a DFES spokesperson said.

“If the way is clear, leave now for a safer place.

“This may be with family or friends away from the area.

“Do not wait and see, leaving at the last minute could put your life in danger.”

Firefighters are on the scene fighting the blaze, with several water-bombers assisting ground crews from the sky.

A number of roads, including Tonkin Highway in both directions between Rowley Road and Thomas Road, have been closed.

The Bureau of Meteorology recorded a top of 41.3C near Jandakot about 2.30pm on Monday afternoon, with temperatures continuing to swelter past 34C about 4.30pm.

A separate bushfire watch and act is also in place for those bound by Masters Road to the east, Thomas Road to the south, Hopkinson Road to the west and Rowley Road to the north in parts of Darling Downs and Hilbert.

“There is a possible threat to lives and homes as a fire is burning in the area and conditions are changing,” a DFES spokesperson saisd.