Weeli Wolli closed as bushfire burns near Newman

Another bushfire has ignited on the Great Northern Highway this week, as flames burn 50km north west of Newman.

Burning between Rhodes Ridge Mine Site and Mt Robinson, the cause of the fire was due to lightning and has burnt 30,000 hectares of bushland.

People have been advised that recreation sites and tracks in the vicinity of the Weeli Wolli Springs are closed and anyone in the area should head towards the highway.

The fire is out of control and moving fast as Rio Tinto firefighting crews battle the flames.

The Department of Fire and Emergency services has advised motorists to avoid the area if possible and to watch for emergency personnel.

To keep up to date with the bushfire visit www.emergency.wa.gov.au or call 13 DFES.