Perth fire downgraded but extreme weather conditions expected for weekend

Residents warned not to return to fire-affected area as bureau forecasts wind gusts of up to 80 km/h and 39C heat

• Get our morning and afternoon news emails, free app or daily news podcast

Firefighters battling a blaze that has destroyed 18 homes in Perth’s outer northern suburbs will face extreme weather conditions across the weekend.

Wind gusts of up to 80 km/h and temperatures of 39C are forecast in Perth by the Bureau of Meteorology, with the fire danger also rated as extreme in parts of the city on Saturday.

Sign up for Guardian Australia’s free morning and afternoon email newsletters for your daily news roundup