Smoke Haze Blankets Perth Suburbs Due to Prescribed Burns

A thick smoky haze has enveloped the city of Perth, attributed to prescribed burns conducted on its outskirts. As a result, residents in some suburbs have reported ash falling from the sky, casting a grey pall over the otherwise sunny spring backdrop.

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) issued a smoke alert on Wednesday for the metropolitan region and the adjacent Perth Hills. The alert comes as smoke from burns east of Bedfordale, north of Guilderton, north of Boddington, and on private properties make its way across the city.

Individuals residing in affected areas expressed their concerns on social media, with one commenting, “I know prescribed burns are necessary but this is awful,” describing the conditions in Kenwick as “thick smoke and even ash.” Another resident remarked that it “looks like Armageddon,” while someone else lamented that the “wretched burn-off smoke is killing me.”

With visibility reduced by the haze, Main Roads WA has advised motorists traveling on Roe Highway near Kenwick Link in Beckenham to switch on their headlights and maintain additional braking distance.

DFES has reassured the public that the smoke is expected to dissipate as south-easterly winds shift throughout the evening and overnight. Until then, citizens are advised to keep doors and windows closed and air-conditioners off. The department also emphasized the importance of those with asthma and pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions adhering to their treatment plans.

Traffic navigating through smoke-affected areas is urged to proceed with caution to ensure safety.

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In a separate incident, Stephanie Ryan, a babysitter, and an eight-year-old girl named Raven tragically lost their lives in a townhouse fire in Thorneside, east of Brisbane. The fire erupted early on Sunday morning and was extinguished roughly an hour later.

Karen Linsley, Ryan’s aunt and next of kin, described her niece as “lovely,” highlighting her vibrant personality and readiness to help anyone in need. “She was loved by a lot of people and will be missed by a lot of people,” Linsley commented.

Police initially do not consider the fire suspicious but continue to investigate. Detective Inspector Paul Dalton noted the courageous attempts by bystanders to manage the blaze, though ultimately “futile.”

Amanda Turnbull, principal of Birkdale South State School, remembered Raven as “an adored student” who brought cheerfulness and imagination to their school community. “Raven’s love for bright ribbons will forever set her apart and remind us each day of the precious gift she was to our school community,” she stated.