Update: Police have revoked an emergency declaration under the Public Safety Preservation Act (PSPA) at Chewko, in relation to fires burning in the area.
The PSPA was revoked at 6.43pm. The fires are expected to continue to burn tonight, and are being actively managed by QFES.
Residents and motorists in the area are urged to keep up to date with fire warnings, keep windows closed and drive safely in areas affected by smoke.
The fires are being treated as suspicious, with investigations underway.
Earlier: Far North police have made an emergency declaration under the Public Safety Preservation Act (PSPA) at Chewko near Mareeba, due to fires burning in the area.
The exclusion zone encompasses from Granite Creek in the west, Roiko Road and Chewko Road to the North, the Kennedy Highway to the east and Springmount Road to the south (as pictured).
Several fires are currently burning through farm and bushland, with several properties evacuated as a precaution.
Investigations are underway into whether the fires were deliberately lit
No one has been injured.
Any residents and motorists within the exclusion zone are advised to keep up to date with QFES warnings and keep windows closed and respiratory medication nearby, if necessary.
Police request members of the public travelling in the area stay out of the exclusion zone while emergency services respond.
QFES current warnings: https://www.qfes.qld.gov.au/Current-Incidents
