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ABC News
ABC News
National

Toodyay bushfire: Out-of-control fire north of Perth downgraded to watch and act

An out-of-control fire near the Western Australian town of Toodyay, about 90 kilometres north-east of Perth, has been downgraded.

Earlier an emergency warning was in place for people in parts of Julimar, Morangup, Toodyay and West Toodyay in the Shire of Toodyay.

The fire has caused minor damage to rail infrastructure and the Department of Fire and Emergency Services is investigating a report of a damaged outbuilding.

There is still a possible threat to lives and homes, as a fire is still approaching the area and conditions may change.

DFES superintendent Craig Garrett said the cause of the blaze is under investigation.

"We did have lightning in the area, but the cause of the fire is under investigation because of the number of fires and the location," he said.

About 35 people registered at the evacuation centre at the height of the emergency on Monday, but none stayed overnight.

Toodyay Shire President Rosemary Madasci said it was business as usual for the community.

"I think initially there was a bit of fear, but in the warning areas people were pretty calm," she said.

"One of the biggest concerns for people is their pets, it's very difficult, particularly if you can't bring them all with you."

Tough weather conditions persist

Career and volunteer firefighters are still on the ground, with Mr Garrett saying tough weather conditions are making it difficult to bring the blaze under control.

"We are not out of the woods yet. The forecast for today is hot and windy and there is the potential for the fire to get out of the valley," he said.

"Five fires start yesterday and crews have worked overnight in difficult conditions to contain a couple of those fires, but there are still a couple of the larger ones out of control."

Authorities are advising people who do not plan to defend their homes to leave if the way is clear or make final preparations if they wish to remain in place.

The evacuation centre that was opened at Toodyay Memorial Hall has been closed.

The fire was first reported at 4:30pm AWST with the emergency warning significantly increasing in size around 7:30pm on Monday night.

At 9:25pm AWST it was downgraded to watch and act, but the fire is still approaching the area and conditions may change. 

DFES officers and Strike Force Vulcan will continue to investigate the cause of the fires. 

Several local roads remain closed.

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