27 homes lost in Western Australia bushfire

SYDNEY - At least 27 homes have been destroyed in a devastating blaze in the Perth Hills area of Western Australia, local media reported on Monday.

More than 100 firefighters are still battling the fire, which started on Sunday morning in Parkerville.

The fast-moving fire fanned by strong winds spread to surrounding areas, including Stoneville and Mount Helena, according to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC).

A man died on Sunday while trying to prepare his home for the fire in John Forrest National Park in the Perth Hills.

He collapsed on the roof of his home and died at the scene.

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) said more than 100 firefighters had been battling the Parkerville fire, with some suffering from heat exhaustion.

The DFES said 27 homes have been confirmed lost in the fire, warning that the number "is expected to increase as damage assessments continue."

A bushfire watch and act alert has been issued for people in the eastern part of Parkerville, Stoneville, and Mount Helena, as well as the western part of Gidgegannup, and Chidlow and the city of Swan, the DFES said.

"There is a possible threat to lives and homes as a fire is in the area and conditions are changing," it said in a statement.

The fire has burned more than 650 hectares of bush.