The blaze started in the Lane-Poole Reserve near the city of Perth in the state of Western Australia and was reported early on Wednesday morning, while it has already burned more than 11,000 hectares.

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services has issued a warning statement claiming that the fire is threatening human lives and homes, since it is moving fast.

The blaze is now raging on both sides of the South Western Highway, while many roads and recreation sites are closed.

The residents of the town of Waroona which is located along the highway have said that the fire is “out-of-control and unpredictable.”

More than 7,000 people have been left without electricity, while the residents of the town of Harvey were urged to evacuate immediately their homes as a wind change turns the flames south toward the town.