Mt French bushfire: Residents told to seek shelter immediately as out of control blaze rages ‘firefighters cannot stop the fire’

A ‘potentially deadly bushfire’ raging out of control in south-east Queensland has prompted warnings for residents to seek shelter immediately.

Additional fire crews have been deployed to the blaze near Boonah, west of the Gold Coast.

A shed has already been destroyed while other properties including houses are under threat from the fire.

Authorities issued an emergency alert around 3:53 p.m. Friday for French Mountain with residents told to seek shelter immediately.

“A potentially deadly fire is now hitting Mount French Road. Your life is in danger. You must SEEK SHELTER IMMEDIATELY to survive,” QFES said Friday afternoon in an alert to people in the area.

‘Don’t try to leave. Driving now can be deadly.’

Queensland Fire and Emergency Service warnings are current for properties between Mount French Road, Sommers Road and Frenches Creek Road including Schubel Road.

The fire has been fueled by strong winds, with QFES ground crews at the scene along with police and Queensland Ambulance Service.

Water bombers and other aircraft are helping to put out the flames, with more fire crews on the way.

Residents are asked to shelter either inside a brick building, a room with multiple escape points on the opposite side from the fire, or to the safest possible point when the fire approaches and passes.

Firefighters cannot control the fire and residents should not wait for emergency personnel at their door.

“Thick smoke will make it difficult to see and breathe and will sting your eyes,” says the QFES alert.

‘It will be very hot and loud. You can hear explosions nearby. The sky will be dark.