Fitzgerald River National Park: Bushfire caused by lightning sparks downgraded to watch and act level

A bushfire warning for areas north of Bremer Bay has been downgraded to a watch and act alert.

People south of South Coast Highway near the Fitzgerald townsite in the suburbs of West Fitzgerald, Fitzgerald River National Park and West River were bound by the warning just after 7pm on Friday.

“Stay alert and monitor your surroundings as conditions could change,” the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions said in the updated alert.

The bushfire was first reported at 6pm on Thursday following a lightning strike, with the fire uncontained and out-of-control at 7pm on Friday.

The fire was moving in a northerly direction on Friday night and had razed approximately 2000ha.

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

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

The Department is managing the fire, with at least 75 career and volunteer firefighters at the scene. Water bombers were assisiting ground crews but were stood down for the evening.

Several roads are closed including South Coast Highway between West River and Mallee Road.

Motorists are urged to avoid the area if possible.

A separate advice alert is in place for resident north of South Coast Highway.