SYDNEY (AFP) – A raging wildfire in Australia's west has destroyed at least 20 homes and injured three firefighters, officials said Wednesday, evoking bleak memories of devastating fires in February.

Hundreds of firefighters were battling the out-of-control blaze at Toodyay, a farming district about 80 kilometers northeast of Perth, after hot and windy weather fuelled fires in the region.

"We can confirm that 20 homes have been lost, but that number could double," Fire and Emergency Services Authority (FESA) spokesman Allen Gale said. "House after house has been destroyed, in a line, and there are still pockets where the fire is still burning."

Three firefighters were treated for smoke inhalation and dehydration after battling the flames, which consumed some 2,700 hectares, including houses, sheds and farmland.