A large bushfire burning south of Perth has destroyed two buildings, as authorities warn more losses are expected.

March 25, 2024

Homes are feared to be among the buildings destroyed by a massive out-of-control bushfire south of Perth that was accidentally sparked by campers.

An emergency warning remained in place on Monday for communities in parts of Blythewood, Coolup, Meelon, Nanga Brook, Oakley, Teesdale and Waroona in the shires of Waroona and Murray.

Premier Roger Cook said two outbuildings had been impacted by the blaze that’s being fought in “extremely challenging conditions”.

“We also understand that homes have been lost,” he told reporters.

Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner Darren Klemm urged any people in the area to leave immediately and find safety.

He said firefighters faced variable winds in difficult terrain.

“The fire is burning through steep and hilly terrain with thick forest and old-growth pine that is very dry and difficult to access,” he said.

The blaze, which has a 50km perimeter, started on Saturday in state forest west of the Nanga township and has burned more than 3000 hectares.

More than 160 firefighters and support personnel are battling the fire, with support from water bombers.

It is moving slowly in a westerly direction and is not contained or controlled, with crews working to build containment lines.

Two outbuildings have been destroyed and authorities say they expect to soon confirm further property loss.

A search and rescue team has returned to the fire ground to conduct damage assessments after they were forced to stop work on Sunday due to the danger of falling trees.

Commissioner Klemm said the cause of the fire was accidental and is believed to have been started by campers using a car battery to charge electronic devices.

The Department of Communities has set up an evacuation centre at Murray Aquatic and Recreation Centre in Pinjarra.