What areas in Australia are affected by bushfires?

Bushfires are currently burning in parts of Victoria and New South Wales, with Victoria declared a disaster zone.

What is the weather forecast for Sydney and Canberra?

Forecasters predict severe heatwave conditions, with maximum temperatures expected to reach 43C (109F) in Sydney and 37C (98F) in Canberra.

Is there a cyclone threat for Australia?

Yes, a tropical low-pressure system is approaching the Queensland coast and may strengthen into a category one tropical cyclone.

Home / Disasters and Accidents / Australia Burns: Heatwave Fuels Extreme Bushfires

Australia Burns: Heatwave Fuels Extreme Bushfires

10 Jan

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Summary

Victoria declared a disaster zone with 300,000 hectares burned.
Tens of thousands of homes and businesses lost power.
Tropical cyclone threat looms for Queensland coast.

Australia Burns: Heatwave Fuels Extreme Bushfires

Bushfires are raging across parts of Australia under severe to extreme heatwave conditions, with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese warning of dangerous fire weather. Victoria has declared a disaster zone after dozens of fires consumed 300,000 hectares, destroyed homes, and left approximately 30,000 homes and businesses without power. The largest fire near Longwood has burned 130,000 hectares, destroying 30 structures.

Neighboring New South Wales is also contending with numerous fires, with officials predicting very difficult containment conditions. Forecasters have issued warnings for severe to extreme heat, with temperatures expected to reach highs of 43C (109F) in Sydney and 37C (98F) in Canberra. Three people previously reported missing in Victoria have been confirmed safe.

Adding to the weather crisis, a tropical low-pressure system is heading towards Queensland's coast. It is forecast to strengthen into a category one tropical cyclone, potentially bringing damaging winds and life-threatening flash flooding. This system is expected to make landfall between Cardwell and Bowen early on Sunday.