“Hazmat Emergency Response in Western Australia After Tornado Causes Asbestos Contamination”

Asbestos Scattered Over Residential Streets After Tornado Hits Bunbury, Western Australia

A devastating tornado ripped through Bunbury in Western Australia’s south-west, causing extensive damage to over 100 homes, the town’s prison, a sporting center, and other community buildings and infrastructure. While no serious injuries were reported, the aftermath of the tornado has prompted a “hazmat emergency” response due to asbestos contamination fears in the area.

Specialist crews are urgently working to contain any possible exposure to asbestos, which has been scattered over residential streets near the Hay Park sports complex. Residents living in three blocks have been advised to stay away from their homes as authorities focus on cleaning up the hazardous material.

WA Premier Roger Cook acknowledged the presence of asbestos in the streets and assured the public that specialist teams are on the ground to address the issue. Exclusion zones have been established to ensure public safety while efforts are made to clean up the contaminated areas.

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services acting commissioner, Melissa Pexton, stated that authorities are now shifting their focus towards recovery efforts after containing the hazmat emergency. Specialist contractors have been hired to sweep the affected streets in an attempt to reduce the size of the exclusion zone.

Nine people have been relocated to emergency accommodation, and the community is coming together to discuss additional services needed for those affected by the tornado. Residents living in uninhabitable or severely damaged homes are eligible for emergency payments from the state government, while those impacted by power outages can apply for compensation to replace spoiled food and other items.

Despite the significant damage caused by the tornado, there have been no reports of looting, particularly in the exclusion zone. The town’s high school and primary school have been deemed safe and are set to reopen on Monday.

Emergency services minister Stephen Dawson estimated that the damage bill would amount to millions of dollars, highlighting the extensive impact of the tornado on the community. As cleanup and recovery efforts continue, authorities are committed to keeping the public informed and ensuring the safety and well-being of residents in Bunbury.