Deadly bushfire surges towards town in Far North Queensland

Leave NOW: Bushfire surges towards town as residents are warned it will soon be too late to escape the blaze

  • Town of Irvinebank in Far North Queensland will soon be overrun by the bushfire
  • The ‘large, fast-moving and unpredictable fire’ was due to arrive about 4.30pm
  • Firefighters warned the dangerous blaze could kill everyone in its path 

Thousands of residents have been urged to evacuate entire towns in Far North Queensland as a raging bushfire approaches.

Firefighters pleaded with locals in Irvinebank, 120km southwest of Cairns, to leave immediately while there was still time.

‘Leaving immediately is the safest option, as it will soon be too dangerous to drive,’ the Queensland Fire Service said in its warning.

Thousands of residents have been urged to evacuate entire towns in Far North Queensland as a raging bushfire approaches

‘If you cannot leave, identify where you will seek shelter from the bushfire. If you are not in the area, do not return, as conditions are too dangerous.’ 

The ‘large, fast-moving and unpredictable fire’ was travelling north-northwest towards Irvinebank and would hit about 4.30pm on Monday.

‘Conditions are now very dangerous and firefighters may soon be unable to prevent the fire advancing. The fire may pose a threat to all lives directly in its path,’ it said.

‘Fire crews may not be able to protect your property. You should not expect a firefighter at your door: act now.’

Firefighters pleaded with locals in Irvinebank, 120km southwest of Cairns, to leave immediately while there was still time

Firefighters pleaded with locals in Irvinebank, 120km southwest of Cairns, to leave immediately while there was still time

Firefighters said power, water, and mobile phone service may be lost and road conditions may become very dangerous. 

Smoke would also reduce visibility and air quality, making it more difficult to flee and to remain in the area. 

Residents were advised to evacuate to towards Herberton via Herberton Petford Road.

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