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First aid posts set up on Eyre Highway as uncontrolled bushfire leaves travellers, truckies in limbo

AAP
Video400km stretch of Eyre Highway closed after fire at Balladonia in WA

Two first aid posts have been established along the Eyre Highway as a major bushfire continues to block the road link to South Australia.

Authorities say the blaze, which has been burning since December 20, is now impacting the highway in several locations and remains out of control and unpredictable.

A number of motorists and truckies are stranded on either side of the road blockage with St John Ambulance establishing first aid posts at Norseman and Caiguna to offer assistance.

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However, those people stopped at Caiguna have been advised their best option is to return east.

A watch and act warning is in place for people in the area of the Balladonia Roadhouse in the Shire of Dundas, while bushfire advice is current for areas east and west of Balladonia.

Authorities say the existing fire and fresh ignitions — along with erratic fire behaviour and unstable weather conditions — means the Eyre and Coolgardie-Esperance highways will remain closed for some time.

“People are asked to avoid the area, ensure they have enough food and water supplies,” they said.

“People are urged to stop taking backtracks and unsealed roads to try to avoid the road closures.”

The blaze was first reported on December 20 and fire crews remain on the ground trying to bring it under control.

AAP

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