Residents urged to remain bushfire prepared as temperatures soar

Several fires have already burned across the Peel region over the past week, with the harsh conditions adding extra difficulty for firefighters.

The first blaze took off at the Len Howard Conservation Park in Erskine on Wednesday, December 30, when the maximum temperature reached 34 degrees and coincided with 30-kilometre per hour winds.

The fire was fortunately brought under control and an all clear was issued the following day, but more persistent blazes continue to burn in both Kwinana and Rockingham.

More than 100 firefighters have tackled the blaze in Kwinana, which started at the intersection of Thomas Road and Gilmore Avenue in Orelia.

The fire burned through part of the town's rubbish tip on Monday, but the alert level has since been downgraded to a bushfire advice.

The same alert level is currently in place for the fire burning in the western part of Rockingham.

But despite the fires being seemingly under control, residents are implored to remain cautious with the warm weather making for unpredictable conditions.

The new year is yet to see a maximum temperature under 30 degrees, and isn't expected to greet one until this coming Sunday, January 10.

Highs of 36, 38, and 37 degrees are expected to hit Mandurah from Thursday through Saturday, with each producing winds of up to 20 kilometres per hour.

Department of Fire and Emergency Services deputy commissioner Craig Waters stressed the importance of residents remaining ready should a fire break out.

"The adverse weather conditions, the high temperatures associated also with the extreme wind gusts have made it extremely challenging for fire fighters across the state," he told reporters at a press conference on Monday.

"We're just asking members of the community to be aware and remain vigilant. If you see any signs of smoke or a fire call 000 and put your bushfire plan into action.

"We're not out of the woods yet."

Fire and Emergency Services commissioner Darren Klemm echoed the warning.

"This week's weather conditions are some of the most challenging firefighting conditions I have seen in many years and unfortunately, weather conditions are not easing over the coming days, in fact they are only going to get worse," he said.

"We face the risk of new fires igniting and existing fires escalating, which would put extreme pressure on emergency services."

Across the state firefighters continue to battle blazes in Gingin, Mundaring, Geraldton and Beverley, with many causing possible threats to homes and lives.

As of Wednesday, January 6, total fire bans were put into effect for the Peel region shires of Serpentine-Jarrahdale, Murray, Waroona and Boddington, along with many more across WA.

Visit emergency.wa.gov.au to keep up to date with bushfires in your area.