Emergency warning downgraded for bushfire threatening lives and homes in South West

Fears have eased over a bushfire burning in Western Australia’s South West.

An emergency warning was issued on Thursday for the blaze in the Shire of Donnybrook-Blingup, about 220 kilometres south of Perth.

But that has now been downgraded to a watch and act message, Emergency WA says.

While it continues to burn out of control, there has been reduced fire activity.

The blaze was sparked on Wednesday afternoon but there has been no information on the possible cause.

The Department of Communities has set up an evacuation centre at Donnybrook Recreation Centre.

Firefighters from the Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service and the Bush Fire Service are on the scene along with those from the Parks and Wildlife Service.

State Emergency Service volunteers are also providing support.