Teen charged over Kalamunda bushfire
A teenager has been charged after WA Police allege he set off fireworks that sparked an out-of-control fire in Kalamunda in the early hours of Thursday morning.
Police said the wildfire was rapidly escalating and the assistance of multiple Fire and Emergency Services crews and police resources was needed.
The fire destroyed more than 25 hectares of native bushland and is still burning.
More than 2,000 homes in the area were without power and the Department for Communities set up an evacuation center at High Wycombe Community and Recreation Centre.
WA Police allege the 19-year-old man threw fireworks into dry grass in bush on Temby Avenue in Kalamunda, which sparked a fire.
He has been charged with a breach of duty offense and will appear in the Perth Magistrates Court today.
Emergency services said the bushfire was moving westwards and was contained but not contained.
Many roads in the area were closed, including Harbor Road and Temby Road.
Holmes Road is closed at Wandoo Road, while Norwood Road is closed at Holmes Road and Hawkin Road is closed at Maud Road. Drivers are asked to reduce their speed, drive carefully and be alert to emergency personnel working on the roads.
Fire crews are actively fighting the fire and air support has been sent to ground crews.
