Large bushfire threatens Australia's Queensland

BRISBANE - Residents in the vicinity of The Pines in Southern Queensland have been strongly advised to prepare for evacuation as a large bushfire is moving towards the area, the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) warned on Friday.

Four water bombing aircraft and 15 fire crews are working to contain the blaze that's burning near the Gore Highway at The Pines, about 240 kilometers west of Brisbane.

The fire has burnt about 400 hectares of land and is moving slowly in a north easterly direction, according to the QFES.

The large, slow moving fire is expected to impact the areas of Paddy's Creek Road and Pine Ridge Road in the next two to six hours, the fire authority warns.

"Residents are strongly advised to be prepared to relocate to a safer area if required," the QFES said in its latest alert.

"Currently, 15 fire crews are working to contain the blaze but firefighters may not be able to protect every affected property and residents should not expect a firefighter at their door."

Smoke is still affecting the areas of Flamingo Road, Rosella Road, Peacock Road, Boondindilla Road.

Spot fires may occur ahead of the fire front and embers are also being thrown from the fire, the alert said.