Lives, homes at risk from Oz bushfire

Emergency services are urging residents to leave their homes now. Photo / Thinkstock

Remote communities in Western Australia are under threat from a bushfire.

The fire started on Christmas Eve near Marrilla Station, about 1200km north of Perth, and is burning towards Yanrey Station.

Authorities on Sunday have issued a bushfire alert to warn residents that the blaze now threatens lives and homes.

Residents at Giralia Station and Yanrey Station in the Shires of Carnarvon and Exmouth are being warned of the coming danger.

Burkett Road, a major road on the region, has been closed.

The fire and emergency services authority warns that those in the remote area need to leave now or be prepared to defend properties.

Fire crews are battling the fire while a helicopter conducts surveillance from above.

- AAP