National

Emergency warning as bushfire threatens homes and lives

By Lloyd Jones

Sep 16, 2026

Firefighters (file image) — Firefighters are battling a blaze burning in extreme weather conditions on the outskirts of Darwin. -AAP Image

Properties have been engulfed in an extreme bushfire on the outskirts of Darwin, with residents told to leave immediately or shelter indoors if it's unsafe to leave as firefighters battle to protect properties.

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An emergency warning was issued with the fire burning in extreme weather conditions at Blackmore, about 80km from the city centre, on Wednesday afternoon.

"The risk of loss of life or threat to properties is almost certain or has occurred," the agency said.

Firefighters were undertaking defensive strategies to protect lives and property, with structures already impacted, it said.

Properties along Mieland Road were under threat, Acting Chief Fire Control Officer Nathaniel Stanford said.

"Crews are currently working to install some tactical back burns to try and prevent it getting there, but I am seeing spot fires occurring ahead of the front on our mapping system at the moment," Mr Stanford told ABC Radio.

Reports from the fireground suggested structures had been engulfed.

"We haven't confirmed all the details on that yet," Mr Stanford said.

"At the moment, we're really trying to prevent that fire impacting any further structures."