Bushfire Destroys Homes In Western Australia, Two Firefighters Injured, Residents Evacuate Under Threat

Perth, Australia— A fast-moving bushfire tore through scrubland in Western Australia on November 1, 2026, destroying several homes and injuring two firefighters as authorities issued emergency evacuation orders.

The fire started late Saturday afternoon near a rural corridor about 200 kilometers south of Perth. Strong winds pushed it through dry grass and eucalyptus. By nightfall it had grown to more than 1,200 hectares. Flames jumped containment lines. Homes were in its path.

Two volunteer firefighters suffered burns and smoke inhalation while defending a property line. They were airlifted to Bunbury Regional Hospital. The Department of Fire and Emergency Services said both are stable. Their truck was damaged when the fire overran it.

At least six homes were confirmed lost by early Sunday. Sheds, vehicles, and fencing were also destroyed. The Shire of Harvey declared a local emergency. An evacuation center was opened at the recreation center in Australind. More than 80 people registered.

"Conditions turned on us. Wind shift drove fire into properties with little warning," a DFES incident controller said. "Crews worked through the night to protect lives."

ABC News Australia reported that temperatures hit 34 degrees with gusts over 60 km/h. The region had not seen significant rain in three weeks. Fuel loads were high. The Bushfire Risk Management Plan had flagged the area as high risk last month.

Residents described black smoke blocking the sun. One farmer said he had minutes to move livestock. Another said he stayed to fight spot fires with a garden hose until police ordered him out. Power was cut to several streets.

Aerial water bombers joined the fight at first light. Two large air tankers and four helicopters worked the northern flank. Ground crews cut breaks with bulldozers. Officials said the fire is still active but its spread has slowed.

Investigators are looking at an ignition point near a roadside reserve. The cause remains open. The emergency warning remains in place.