Forecasts of heavy rain offered hope Tuesday in the months-long battle to contain Australia's unprecedented bushfires, but smoke lifted pollution levels in the nation's second-biggest city to among the worst in the world.

Cool-weather over recent days has already given some respite for exhausted firefighters spread out across vast swathes of the country, with some of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/firefighters-gain-on-california-blaze-last-of-missing-found-alive-156355">biggest blazes</a> now brought under control.

<img alt="Bushfire" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ce5ec23a-6c3d-4397-8402-e04cb3e9b83d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%282%29_31.jpg" />

Optimism was further boosted on Tuesday with heavy rain forecast for some of the hotspots in the most populated eastern states of New South Wales and Victoria.

"It’s some pretty good news," New South Wales Rural Fire Service Commissioner <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-bushfires-cooler-temperature-and-rainfall-ease-conditions-ahead-of-rough-night-273517">Shane Fitzsimmons</a> said.

"We’ve been talking about it for months now, that January might see the first fall of decent rain, and that looks like what's coming along over the next few days."&nbsp;

However, dozens of fires remained out of control and, with many weeks of hot weather still expected throughout Australia's summer, there was no suggestion the crisis would end soon.

Toxic smoke from the blazes also blew overnight into the Victorian capital of Melbourne, which is due to stage the Australian Open tennis tournament next week.

Pollution in Melbourne, which is normally ranked as among the world's most liveable cities, was rated "hazardous", with health authorities warning people to stay indoors.

Practice sessions for world number one <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-once-again-claims-no-1-spot-in-rankings-novak-djokovic-slips-259888">Rafael Nadal</a> and some of the other big names in tennis were suspended on Tuesday.

Qualifying rounds for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sharapova-to-return-next-month-as-brisbane-wildcard-271149">Australian Open</a> were also delayed for a couple of hours, and the organisers' decision to resume play late on Tuesday morning caused confusion and concern for some players.

Mandy Minella, world number 140 from Luxembourg, voiced her opposition on Twitter.

"Shocked to see that qualifying matches have started @Australian Open, What about the health of all the people that have to work out there, especially the ball kids?" she tweeted.

Still, the hazy conditions were not expected to last all week in Melbourne, with a change in wind direction and the forecast wet weather over the coming days set to clear the air.

The bushfires have killed at least 27 people, destroyed more than 2,000 homes and burnt 10 million hectares (100,000 square kilometers) of land an area larger than South Korea or Portugal.

<img alt="Bushfire" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="70794b3e-7c3e-4c65-810a-bbdb1763fe21" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design_41.jpg" />

Australia endures bushfires every summer.

However, climate change and a prolonged drought have contributed to the current crisis, with the blazes starting much earlier than normal and lasting for far longer.

Australia experienced its driest and hottest year on record in 2019, with its highest average maximum temperature of 41.9 degrees Celsius (107.4 degrees Fahrenheit) recorded in mid-December.

The fires have prompted an outpouring of donations from around the world to help communities and devastated animal populations.

Environmental groups estimate one billion <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-tennis-stars-and-other-animals-29855">animals</a> have been killed, many of them unique to Australia.

The country's environment minister Sussan Ley has warned that in some areas, koalas may have to be reclassified as endangered.

Forecasts of heavy rain offered hope Tuesday in the months-long battle to contain Australia's unprecedented bushfires, but smoke lifted pollution levels in the nation's second-biggest city to among the worst in the world.

Forecasts of heavy rain offered hope Tuesday in the months-long battle to contain Australia's unprecedented bushfires, but smoke lifted pollution levels in the nation's second-biggest city to among the worst in the world. Cool-weather over recent days has already given some respite for exhausted firefighters spread out across vast swathes of the country, with some of the biggest blazes now brought under control. Optimism was further boosted on Tuesday with heavy rain forecast for some of the hotspots in the most populated eastern states of New South Wales and Victoria. "It’s some pretty good news," New South Wales Rural Fire Service Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons said. "We’ve been talking about it for months now, that January might see the first fall of decent rain, and that looks like what's coming along over the next few days." However, dozens of fires remained out of control and, with many weeks of hot weather still expected throughout Australia's summer, there was no suggestion the crisis would end soon. Toxic smoke from the blazes also blew overnight into the Victorian capital of Melbourne, which is due to stage the Australian Open tennis tournament next week. Pollution in Melbourne, which is normally ranked as among the world's most liveable cities, was rated "hazardous", with health authorities warning people to stay indoors. Practice sessions for world number one Rafael Nadal and some of the other big names in tennis were suspended on Tuesday. Qualifying rounds for the Australian Open were also delayed for a couple of hours, and the organisers' decision to resume play late on Tuesday morning caused confusion and concern for some players. Mandy Minella, world number 140 from Luxembourg, voiced her opposition on Twitter. "Shocked to see that qualifying matches have started @Australian Open, What about the health of all the people that have to work out there, especially the ball kids?" she tweeted. Still, the hazy conditions were not expected to last all week in Melbourne, with a change in wind direction and the forecast wet weather over the coming days set to clear the air. The bushfires have killed at least 27 people, destroyed more than 2,000 homes and burnt 10 million hectares (100,000 square kilometers) of land an area larger than South Korea or Portugal. Australia endures bushfires every summer. However, climate change and a prolonged drought have contributed to the current crisis, with the blazes starting much earlier than normal and lasting for far longer. Australia experienced its driest and hottest year on record in 2019, with its highest average maximum temperature of 41.9 degrees Celsius (107.4 degrees Fahrenheit) recorded in mid-December. The fires have prompted an outpouring of donations from around the world to help communities and devastated animal populations. Environmental groups estimate one billion animals have been killed, many of them unique to Australia. The country's environment minister Sussan Ley has warned that in some areas, koalas may have to be reclassified as endangered.

Rain offers hope in Australian bushfire fight

As 24 people were killed in massive bushfires that caused great damage in Australia, #prayforAustralia trends on Twitter as netizens sought to turn world's attention towards massive crisis.&nbsp;

People in social media also shared images of koalas and other animals who have been severely affected by the fires. Nearly, half of Australia's disease-free koala population feared dead in the huge fires.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PrayForAustralia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PrayForAustralia</a> 
1. 24 people dead 
2. 8,000 koalas dead 
3. 500M animals dead 
4. More than 1400 homes destroyed 
5. Over 5.5 million hectares burned 
6. More than 10 million people in toxic level of bushfire smoke 
Pray for Australia. 
I'm in tears RN <a href="https://t.co/ju3Gkjyh3G">pic.twitter.com/ju3Gkjyh3G</a>
— AlHajiOmoIlorin👳🏻👳🏻👳🏻 (@DRealIlorinBoy) <a href="https://twitter.com/DRealIlorinBoy/status/1213726657967726592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-firefighters-get-brief-reprieve-as-death-toll-rises-272175">Australian firefighters get brief reprieve as death toll rises</a>

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This Pics! Heartbreaking Moment! 💔 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PrayForAustralia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PrayForAustralia</a> <a href="https://t.co/cTgt4ITNp2">pic.twitter.com/cTgt4ITNp2</a>
— ஆத்ரேயாடா🔥 | ˢᵒᵒʳᵃʳᵃⁱ ᵖᵒᵗᵗʳᵘ (@Athreyadaw_01) <a href="https://twitter.com/Athreyadaw_01/status/1213746426770886657?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Some scientists say that half a billion native animals died in New South Wales alone.&nbsp;

Some users also urged everyone for rains in the country.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PrayForAustralia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PrayForAustralia</a> rain for Australia 🙏🙏🙏🙏so sad about this， <a href="https://t.co/Legmr0Q3Iy">pic.twitter.com/Legmr0Q3Iy</a>
— PS Detective Agency (@PSDA_Official) <a href="https://twitter.com/PSDA_Official/status/1213726416908324864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Heroes 🙏🏻🙏🏻 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PrayForAustralia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PrayForAustralia</a> <a href="https://t.co/GHee11OiVo">pic.twitter.com/GHee11OiVo</a>
— Alexis Montano (@alexismontano) <a href="https://twitter.com/alexismontano/status/1213737168985681922?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-people-call-emergency-services-after-skies-turn-orange-due-to-bushfires-272244">New Zealand: People call emergency services after skies turn orange due to bushfires</a>

In Australian state of New South Wales, nearly 150 fires continued to burn, with light showers providing little respite. However, blazes again reach the suburbs of Sydney.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Saturday announced the largest military call-up in living memory, deploying upto 3,000 reservists to assist volunteer firefighters.

Warships and combat helicopters have already been used for the largest maritime evacuation in Australia since World War II, rescuing 4,000 people trapped for days on the foreshore of Mallacoota.

Celebrities have come out in support of the crisis and raised millions of dollars to support firefighters and fire-affected communities. American pop star Pink and Australian actress Nicole Kidman said that they would donate USD 500,000.

On Sunday, firefighters found some relief in New South Wales and Victoria due to cooler air and some rainfall.&nbsp;

But some communities are still under threat due to out-of-control fires in and around the town of Eden in New South Wales near the Victorian border.

The smoke from Australia reached New Zealand's Auckland and skies turned orange.&nbsp;

The police said that they urged people to stop calling emergency number 111, telling them the "orange" colour is due to bushfires in Australia.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

As 24 people were killed in massive bushfires that caused great damage in Australia, #prayforAustralia trends on Twitter as netizens sought to turn world's attention towards massive crisis.

As 24 people were killed in massive bushfires that caused great damage in Australia, #prayforAustralia trends on Twitter as netizens sought to turn world's attention towards massive crisis. People in social media also shared images of koalas and other animals who have been severely affected by the fires. Nearly, half of Australia's disease-free koala population feared dead in the huge fires. #PrayForAustralia 1. 24 people dead 2. 8,000 koalas dead 3. 500M animals dead 4. More than 1400 homes destroyed 5. Over 5.5 million hectares burned 6. More than 10 million people in toxic level of bushfire smoke Pray for Australia. I'm in tears RN pic.twitter.com/ju3Gkjyh3G — AlHajiOmoIlorin👳🏻👳🏻👳🏻 (@DRealIlorinBoy) January 5, 2020 × Also read: Australian firefighters get brief reprieve as death toll rises This Pics! Heartbreaking Moment! 💔 #PrayForAustralia pic.twitter.com/cTgt4ITNp2 — ஆத்ரேயாடா🔥 | ˢᵒᵒʳᵃʳᵃⁱ ᵖᵒᵗᵗʳᵘ (@Athreyadaw_01) January 5, 2020 × Some scientists say that half a billion native animals died in New South Wales alone. Some users also urged everyone for rains in the country. #PrayForAustralia rain for Australia 🙏🙏🙏🙏so sad about this， pic.twitter.com/Legmr0Q3Iy — PS Detective Agency (@PSDA_Official) January 5, 2020 × Heroes 🙏🏻🙏🏻 #PrayForAustralia pic.twitter.com/GHee11OiVo — Alexis Montano (@alexismontano) January 5, 2020 × Also read: New Zealand: People call emergency services after skies turn orange due to bushfires In Australian state of New South Wales, nearly 150 fires continued to burn, with light showers providing little respite. However, blazes again reach the suburbs of Sydney. Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Saturday announced the largest military call-up in living memory, deploying upto 3,000 reservists to assist volunteer firefighters. Warships and combat helicopters have already been used for the largest maritime evacuation in Australia since World War II, rescuing 4,000 people trapped for days on the foreshore of Mallacoota. Celebrities have come out in support of the crisis and raised millions of dollars to support firefighters and fire-affected communities. American pop star Pink and Australian actress Nicole Kidman said that they would donate USD 500,000. On Sunday, firefighters found some relief in New South Wales and Victoria due to cooler air and some rainfall. But some communities are still under threat due to out-of-control fires in and around the town of Eden in New South Wales near the Victorian border. The smoke from Australia reached New Zealand's Auckland and skies turned orange. The police said that they urged people to stop calling emergency number 111, telling them the "orange" colour is due to bushfires in Australia.

As 24 die in Australia bushfires, #PrayforAustralia trends in Twitter

Massive bushfires in Australia caused new concerns when the smoke reached neighbouring country New Zealand, forcing people to dial emergency numbers when they spotted orange skies.&nbsp;

The smokes have now moved North, which includes Auckland after covering much of the South Island.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-firefighters-get-brief-reprieve-as-death-toll-rises-272175">Australian firefighters get brief reprieve as death toll rises</a>

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Took these in Auckland city, New Zealand at 3pm today. The smoke from the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AustralianBushfire?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AustralianBushfire</a> shrouding everything in orange. <a href="https://t.co/tgoRx4I11v">pic.twitter.com/tgoRx4I11v</a>
— Gala Georgette (@GalaGeorgette) <a href="https://twitter.com/GalaGeorgette/status/1213657941850513408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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After the skies turned "scary", people in Auckland were urged by police not to dial the 111 emergency number to report the orange haze in the sky coming from Australia.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-firefighters-get-brief-reprieve-as-death-toll-rises-272175">ATP: Novak Djokovic concerned about smoke at Australian Open as bushfires continue to blaze</a>

"We are currently receiving high numbers of calls related to this," police said.

People in New Zealand shared images of orange skies seen across Auckland.

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Just took a couple of shots of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Auckland?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Auckland</a> smoke from the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AustralianBushfire?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AustralianBushfire</a>. Looks absolutely insane. <a href="https://t.co/zCK8DFzxlM">pic.twitter.com/zCK8DFzxlM</a>
— Cinematic Captures (@CineCaptures) <a href="https://twitter.com/CineCaptures/status/1213641554738348033?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Zimena Dormer-Didovich, a local, said that her 14-year-old asthmatic son was feeling the effects of the haze.

"It's very unsettling to see this. I can't imagine what the Australians just be experiencing." said Dormer-Didovich.&nbsp;

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Auckland skies in 4 unfiltered shots<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AustralianBushfire?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AustralianBushfire</a> <a href="https://t.co/nTPW38Nkzf">pic.twitter.com/nTPW38Nkzf</a>
— Keith Miller (@keith_miller_nz) <a href="https://twitter.com/keith_miller_nz/status/1213634729112522752?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Experts say that the change in colour is caused by the smoke which reduces the visibility of blue light.&nbsp;

Forecaster Weatherwatch.co.nz said the appearance of the sky changed dramatically in the early afternoon.

"The gloomy weather is likely to continue for the rest of Sunday with this next main plume moving through and thickening over Sunday afternoon," WeatherWatch said.&nbsp;

At least 24 people have been killed in this season's bushfires in Australia. More than 5.25 million hectares (13 million acres) of land has been burnt in the fires.&nbsp;

(with inputs from AFP and Reuters)

 
&nbsp;

Massive bushfires in Australia caused new concerns when the smoke reached neighbouring country New Zealand, forcing people to dial emergency numbers when they spotted orange skies.

Massive bushfires in Australia caused new concerns when the smoke reached neighbouring country New Zealand, forcing people to dial emergency numbers when they spotted orange skies. The smokes have now moved North, which includes Auckland after covering much of the South Island. Also read: Australian firefighters get brief reprieve as death toll rises Took these in Auckland city, New Zealand at 3pm today. The smoke from the #AustralianBushfire shrouding everything in orange. pic.twitter.com/tgoRx4I11v — Gala Georgette (@GalaGeorgette) January 5, 2020 × After the skies turned "scary", people in Auckland were urged by police not to dial the 111 emergency number to report the orange haze in the sky coming from Australia. Also read: ATP: Novak Djokovic concerned about smoke at Australian Open as bushfires continue to blaze "We are currently receiving high numbers of calls related to this," police said. People in New Zealand shared images of orange skies seen across Auckland. Just took a couple of shots of the #Auckland smoke from the #AustralianBushfire. Looks absolutely insane. pic.twitter.com/zCK8DFzxlM — Cinematic Captures (@CineCaptures) January 5, 2020 × Zimena Dormer-Didovich, a local, said that her 14-year-old asthmatic son was feeling the effects of the haze. "It's very unsettling to see this. I can't imagine what the Australians just be experiencing." said Dormer-Didovich. Auckland skies in 4 unfiltered shots#AustralianBushfire pic.twitter.com/nTPW38Nkzf — Keith Miller (@keith_miller_nz) January 5, 2020 × Experts say that the change in colour is caused by the smoke which reduces the visibility of blue light. Forecaster Weatherwatch.co.nz said the appearance of the sky changed dramatically in the early afternoon. "The gloomy weather is likely to continue for the rest of Sunday with this next main plume moving through and thickening over Sunday afternoon," WeatherWatch said. At least 24 people have been killed in this season's bushfires in Australia. More than 5.25 million hectares (13 million acres) of land has been burnt in the fires. (with inputs from AFP and Reuters)

New Zealand: People call emergency services after skies turn orange due to bushfires

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Saturday that 3000 military reserves were called up, the largest in living memory, to tackle country's massive bushfires.&nbsp;

"Today's decision puts more boots on the ground, puts more planes in the sky, puts more ships at sea," said Morrison. &nbsp; &nbsp;
<img alt="Australia bushfires" data-align="center" data-caption="&lt;br /&gt;
Ember and thick smoke from bushfires reach Braemar Bay in New South Wales on January 4, 2020" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="44af4149-fb86-43ed-948e-05bc55228fc4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/IS6nURuL.jpg" />
Australian prime minister also said that defence force bases would provide temporary accommodation to the ones rescued and A$20 million ($14 million) would be spent to lease four fire-fighting planes to deal with the raging bushfires.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/australian-prime-minister-scott-morrison-defers-trip-to-india-japan-as-bushfire-crisis-looms-272011">Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison defers trip to India, Japan as bushfire crisis looms</a>

"The scale of the fires is stretching resources on the ground and there are clearly communities that need additional help," Morrison added.&nbsp;
<img alt="Australia bushfires" data-align="center" data-caption="Firefighters struggling against the strong wind in an effort to secure nearby houses from bushfires&amp;nbsp;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="88ff8593-46a7-432f-b90e-70e3dfe93aa7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/xMxsb6hq.jpg" />
In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/fierce-wildfires-fuelled-by-searing-temperatures-new-blazes-and-high-winds-in-australia-271558">Fierce wildfires fuelled by searing temperatures, high winds in Australia continue to rage</a>

To oversee the military's actions on the bushfire-crisis, a two-star general has also been appointed. HMAS Adelaide, a helicopter carrier, has also been deployed to carry out evacuations near the border of the states of New South Wales and Victoria. &nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-navy-evacuates-people-trapped-in-mallacoota-as-bushfires-rage-271833">Australian navy evacuates people trapped in Mallacoota as bushfires rage</a>

Australia's military is providing aerial, search and rescue and logistics support for months to fight the months-long disaster. &nbsp;

Presently, 2000 military personnel have already been assisting to tackle the crisis.&nbsp;

"The Government has not taken this decision lightly," said minister of defence Marise Payne. "It is the first time that reserves have been called out in this way in living memory and, in fact, I believe for the first time in our nation's history."

A much smaller number of the reserved forces provided assistance last year too to deal with bushfire-hit Queensland.&nbsp;

At least 23 people are killed in this season's bushfires, which is fuelled by climate change and droughts. More than 5 million hectares (13 million acres) of land has been destroyed.&nbsp;

(with inputs from AFP and Reuters) 
&nbsp;

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Saturday that 3000 military reserves were called up, the largest in living memory, to tackle country's massive bushfires.

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Saturday that 3000 military reserves were called up, the largest in living memory, to tackle country's massive bushfires. "Today's decision puts more boots on the ground, puts more planes in the sky, puts more ships at sea," said Morrison. Australian prime minister also said that defence force bases would provide temporary accommodation to the ones rescued and A$20 million ($14 million) would be spent to lease four fire-fighting planes to deal with the raging bushfires. Also read: Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison defers trip to India, Japan as bushfire crisis looms "The scale of the fires is stretching resources on the ground and there are clearly communities that need additional help," Morrison added. In pics: Fierce wildfires fuelled by searing temperatures, high winds in Australia continue to rage To oversee the military's actions on the bushfire-crisis, a two-star general has also been appointed. HMAS Adelaide, a helicopter carrier, has also been deployed to carry out evacuations near the border of the states of New South Wales and Victoria. Also read: Australian navy evacuates people trapped in Mallacoota as bushfires rage Australia's military is providing aerial, search and rescue and logistics support for months to fight the months-long disaster. Presently, 2000 military personnel have already been assisting to tackle the crisis. "The Government has not taken this decision lightly," said minister of defence Marise Payne. "It is the first time that reserves have been called out in this way in living memory and, in fact, I believe for the first time in our nation's history." A much smaller number of the reserved forces provided assistance last year too to deal with bushfire-hit Queensland. At least 23 people are killed in this season's bushfires, which is fuelled by climate change and droughts. More than 5 million hectares (13 million acres) of land has been destroyed. (with inputs from AFP and Reuters)

Australia calls in reserve forces to tackle bushfire crisis

Thousands of holidaymakers and residents risked being stranded in a swathe of Victoria in Australia's southeast as rising temperature and new heatwave continue to fuel <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bushfires-hit-emergency-level-on-sydneys-outskirts-one-dead-in-south-australia-269445">bushfires</a>.&nbsp;

The authorities earlier asked more than 30,000 people to evacuate <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/residents-holidaymakers-urged-to-leave-australian-region-as-fire-conditions-worsen-270824">Victoria state's popular East Gippsland region </a>on Sunday, adding that soaring temperatures and gusting wings would trigger three large blazes, cutting off the last major road still open.

The residents and tourists in the area faced being stranded as it now "too late to leave", Victoria Emergency Management Commissioner Andrew Crisp said. The Victoria Emergency Management said that it was "not possible" to provide aid to all the visitors in that area.&nbsp;

<img alt="Bushfire " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="21c872c7-efc3-4e68-8ab7-ba1de628e4a9" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2847%29_0.jpg" />

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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In state's seven out of the nine districts, fire danger is forecast to be extreme.&nbsp;

Neighbouring South Australia is witnessing "catastrophic" fire conditions in some regions as temperatures cross the 40 degrees Celsius-mark and storms bring damaging winds.&nbsp;

The Country Fire Service's Brenton Eden warned that it would be a very "dangerous" day for people in the state, with lightning causing a number of blazes.&nbsp;

New South Wales, which is the worst-affected state in Australia, is also likely to experience deteriorating conditions in the next two days as over 100 fires are burning in the region which includes 40 uncontained.&nbsp;

The temperatures in New South Wales are also expected to climb on New year's eve as thousands traditionally gather near Sydney to watch famous firework celebrations.&nbsp;

So far, 10 people have been killed in season's bushfires, which destroyed 1,000 homes and burned over three million hectares (7.4 million acres) an area bigger than Belgium.

<img alt="Bushfire" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b4ea10b5-3178-4d91-b637-77b0e9183be1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2846%29_1.jpg" />

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Hundreds of fires are burning across Australia, which is experiencing a devastating summer bushfire season triggered by a prolonged drought and climate change.

The bushfires have made Sydney and other major cities experience toxic smoke for weeks.&nbsp;

This bushfire season is regarded as one of the toughest due to its size and geographical breadth, despite the southern hemisphere summer not reaching its mid-point yet.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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<img alt="Bushfire" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f5ca798c-b35d-46b3-9f01-43875cb0a44b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2848%29_0.jpg" />

The conservative Prime Minister Scott Morrison has still continued his relentless support to Australia's flourishing mining industry and refused to take further action to cut down emissions.&nbsp;

(with inputs from AFP and Reuters)

Thousands of holidaymakers and residents risked being stranded in a swathe of Victoria in Australia's southeast as rising temperature and new heatwave continue to fuel bushfires.

Thousands of holidaymakers and residents risked being stranded in a swathe of Victoria in Australia's southeast as rising temperature and new heatwave continue to fuel bushfires. The authorities earlier asked more than 30,000 people to evacuate Victoria state's popular East Gippsland region on Sunday, adding that soaring temperatures and gusting wings would trigger three large blazes, cutting off the last major road still open. The residents and tourists in the area faced being stranded as it now "too late to leave", Victoria Emergency Management Commissioner Andrew Crisp said. The Victoria Emergency Management said that it was "not possible" to provide aid to all the visitors in that area. In state's seven out of the nine districts, fire danger is forecast to be extreme. Neighbouring South Australia is witnessing "catastrophic" fire conditions in some regions as temperatures cross the 40 degrees Celsius-mark and storms bring damaging winds. The Country Fire Service's Brenton Eden warned that it would be a very "dangerous" day for people in the state, with lightning causing a number of blazes. New South Wales, which is the worst-affected state in Australia, is also likely to experience deteriorating conditions in the next two days as over 100 fires are burning in the region which includes 40 uncontained. The temperatures in New South Wales are also expected to climb on New year's eve as thousands traditionally gather near Sydney to watch famous firework celebrations. So far, 10 people have been killed in season's bushfires, which destroyed 1,000 homes and burned over three million hectares (7.4 million acres) an area bigger than Belgium. Hundreds of fires are burning across Australia, which is experiencing a devastating summer bushfire season triggered by a prolonged drought and climate change. The bushfires have made Sydney and other major cities experience toxic smoke for weeks. This bushfire season is regarded as one of the toughest due to its size and geographical breadth, despite the southern hemisphere summer not reaching its mid-point yet. The conservative Prime Minister Scott Morrison has still continued his relentless support to Australia's flourishing mining industry and refused to take further action to cut down emissions. (with inputs from AFP and Reuters)

Australia: Nearly 30,000 tourists at risk as massive bushfires continue

Facing angry street protests and mounting political pressure, Australia's prime minister on Thursday broke a long silence to acknowledge "troubling" bushfire smoke that has engulfed his native <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fears-grow-about-sydney-after-australia-fires-merge-into-giant-blaze-266607">Sydney </a>for more than a month.

"I've lived all my life, pretty much, in Sydney and the haze that has come from those fires, I know has been deeply troubling to Sydneysiders," he said, ending weeks of studied silence.

On Wednesday up to 20,000 people -- many wearing face masks -- <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-thousands-protest-against-climate-change-with-bushfire-in-focus-267674">marched in Sydney</a>, demanding Prime Minister Scott Morrison address directly the crisis that has caused health problems to spike and forced residents indoors.

Hours later the conservative leader insisted he understood the concerns of greater Sydney's five million residents, who have been coughing and spluttering through thick smoke off-and-on since October.

"I know how unusual it is to see that haze across my city. And I know how distressing that has been, particularly for young people, who wouldn't have seen that before," he said.

He also made a rare admission that climate change is one of the "factors" causing unprecedented bushfires that have destroyed millions of hectares of land, more than 700 homes and caused toxic smoke to bathe Australia's largest city.

"The dryness of the bush is the biggest factor," he said noting a long drought in some areas. "And we all know climate change, along with many other factors, contributes to what is occurring today."

Until now Morrison's public comments have focused almost exclusively on solidarity with sparsely populated rural communities hit by the fires directly.

A recent poll by Essential Research showed Morrison's disapproval rating had risen from 36 per cent in September -- when the bushfire crisis began in earnest -- to 43 per cent today.

Climate is a vexed political issue for Morrison's Liberal party.

While he once jokingly paraded on the floor of parliament with a lump of coal to show it was not harmful, former leader Malcolm Turnbull broke ranks to demand the party embrace renewable energy and show more leadership.

Any move to significantly reduce Australia's carbon emissions or curb coal exports could damage Morrison in conservative-voting mining communities, split his party and risk tipping a fragile economy into crisis.

Australia's lucrative mining industry accounted for more than 70 percent of exports and was worth a record Aus$264 billion ($180 billion) in the last financial year.

Facing angry street protests and mounting political pressure, Australia's prime minister on Thursday broke a long silence to acknowledge "troubling" bushfire smoke that has engulfed his native Sydney for more than a month.

Facing angry street protests and mounting political pressure, Australia's prime minister on Thursday broke a long silence to acknowledge "troubling" bushfire smoke that has engulfed his native Sydney for more than a month. "I've lived all my life, pretty much, in Sydney and the haze that has come from those fires, I know has been deeply troubling to Sydneysiders," he said, ending weeks of studied silence. On Wednesday up to 20,000 people -- many wearing face masks -- marched in Sydney, demanding Prime Minister Scott Morrison address directly the crisis that has caused health problems to spike and forced residents indoors. Hours later the conservative leader insisted he understood the concerns of greater Sydney's five million residents, who have been coughing and spluttering through thick smoke off-and-on since October. "I know how unusual it is to see that haze across my city. And I know how distressing that has been, particularly for young people, who wouldn't have seen that before," he said. He also made a rare admission that climate change is one of the "factors" causing unprecedented bushfires that have destroyed millions of hectares of land, more than 700 homes and caused toxic smoke to bathe Australia's largest city. "The dryness of the bush is the biggest factor," he said noting a long drought in some areas. "And we all know climate change, along with many other factors, contributes to what is occurring today." Until now Morrison's public comments have focused almost exclusively on solidarity with sparsely populated rural communities hit by the fires directly. A recent poll by Essential Research showed Morrison's disapproval rating had risen from 36 per cent in September -- when the bushfire crisis began in earnest -- to 43 per cent today. Climate is a vexed political issue for Morrison's Liberal party. While he once jokingly paraded on the floor of parliament with a lump of coal to show it was not harmful, former leader Malcolm Turnbull broke ranks to demand the party embrace renewable energy and show more leadership. Any move to significantly reduce Australia's carbon emissions or curb coal exports could damage Morrison in conservative-voting mining communities, split his party and risk tipping a fragile economy into crisis. Australia's lucrative mining industry accounted for more than 70 percent of exports and was worth a record Aus$264 billion ($180 billion) in the last financial year.

Aussie PM breaks silence on 'troubling' smoke crisis

Protesters in smoke-covered <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sydneysiders-urged-to-stay-indoors-as-australian-bushfire-smoke-blankets-city-263900">Sydney </a>kicked off a fresh round of global protests against climate change on Friday, with activists and schoolchildren picketing the headquarters of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-bushfires-record-air-pollution-numbers-recorded-in-new-south-wales-sydney-chokes-263757">bushfire-ravaged </a>Australia's ruling party.

Hundreds of people gathered at the conservative Liberal party's offices to heed the call to action from 16-year-old climate change campaigner Greta Thunberg.

The protests have taken on extra urgency in Australia -- the country's southeast has been devastated by hundreds of damaging bushfires in recent weeks.

The protestors -- brandishing placards that read "You're burning our future" and chanting "we will rise" -- turned out as Sydney was again enveloped in toxic smoke caused by the fires that has blanketed the city for much of the last month.

Six people have died and hundreds of homes have been destroyed in the crisis, which scientists say has been worsened by rising temperatures.

Drought and unseasonably hot, dry and windy conditions have fuelled the unprecedented blazes.

The target of the protesters' ire was Prime Minister Scott Morrison, who has angrily denied any link between the fires and climate change while defending his support for fossil fuels.

"Our government's inaction on the climate crisis has supercharged bushfires," said school strike leader Shiann Broderick. "People are hurting. Communities like ours are being devastated. Summer hasn't even begun."

Australia, with a population of 25 million, has low carbon emissions compared with the planet's biggest polluters, but is one of the world's leading coal exporters.

"The suggestion that (in) any way shape or form that Australia, accountable for 1.3 per cent of the world's emissions, that the individual actions of Australia are impacting directly on specific fire events, whether it's here or anywhere else in the world, that doesn't bear up to credible scientific evidence," Morrison claimed earlier this month.

Missed targets&nbsp;

Protests are expected later in the day in Melbourne, Brisbane and in cities across the world.

Last month, millions of people took to the streets in nearly every major global city for a series of "climate strikes".

The latest demonstrations come as 200 nations prepare to gather in Madrid next week for a 12-day UN climate conference.

The meeting will focus largely on finalising the "rulebook" for the 2015 Paris climate treaty, which becomes operational in 2021.

Scientists have warned that efforts to cap warming to 1.5 Celsius are failing, and that carbon emissions - which are on the rise -- would need to fall 7.6 per cent a year to meet the target.

The UN has reported that greenhouse gas levels in the atmosphere, the main driver of climate change, hit a record high last year.

The organisation has also warned that global temperatures are on pace to rise almost four Celsius by the end of the century -- an increase that could make some places virtually unhabitable.

Protesters in smoke-covered Sydney kicked off a fresh round of global protests against climate change on Friday, with activists and schoolchildren picketing the headquarters of bushfire-ravaged Australia's ruling party.

Protesters in smoke-covered Sydney kicked off a fresh round of global protests against climate change on Friday, with activists and schoolchildren picketing the headquarters of bushfire-ravaged Australia's ruling party. Hundreds of people gathered at the conservative Liberal party's offices to heed the call to action from 16-year-old climate change campaigner Greta Thunberg. The protests have taken on extra urgency in Australia -- the country's southeast has been devastated by hundreds of damaging bushfires in recent weeks. The protestors -- brandishing placards that read "You're burning our future" and chanting "we will rise" -- turned out as Sydney was again enveloped in toxic smoke caused by the fires that has blanketed the city for much of the last month. Six people have died and hundreds of homes have been destroyed in the crisis, which scientists say has been worsened by rising temperatures. Drought and unseasonably hot, dry and windy conditions have fuelled the unprecedented blazes. The target of the protesters' ire was Prime Minister Scott Morrison, who has angrily denied any link between the fires and climate change while defending his support for fossil fuels. "Our government's inaction on the climate crisis has supercharged bushfires," said school strike leader Shiann Broderick. "People are hurting. Communities like ours are being devastated. Summer hasn't even begun." Australia, with a population of 25 million, has low carbon emissions compared with the planet's biggest polluters, but is one of the world's leading coal exporters. "The suggestion that (in) any way shape or form that Australia, accountable for 1.3 per cent of the world's emissions, that the individual actions of Australia are impacting directly on specific fire events, whether it's here or anywhere else in the world, that doesn't bear up to credible scientific evidence," Morrison claimed earlier this month. Missed targets Protests are expected later in the day in Melbourne, Brisbane and in cities across the world. Last month, millions of people took to the streets in nearly every major global city for a series of "climate strikes". The latest demonstrations come as 200 nations prepare to gather in Madrid next week for a 12-day UN climate conference. The meeting will focus largely on finalising the "rulebook" for the 2015 Paris climate treaty, which becomes operational in 2021. Scientists have warned that efforts to cap warming to 1.5 Celsius are failing, and that carbon emissions - which are on the rise -- would need to fall 7.6 per cent a year to meet the target. The UN has reported that greenhouse gas levels in the atmosphere, the main driver of climate change, hit a record high last year. The organisation has also warned that global temperatures are on pace to rise almost four Celsius by the end of the century -- an increase that could make some places virtually unhabitable.

Climate protests kick off in smoke-covered Sydney

Strong winds stoked more than 100 fires across Australia's east coast on Tuesday, blanketing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-bushfires-record-air-pollution-numbers-recorded-in-new-south-wales-sydney-chokes-263757">Sydney </a>in hazardous smoke and prompting health warnings for the country's most populous city.

Australia is prone to bushfires in its dry, hot summers, but fierce blazes have been sparked early, in the southern spring, by a long drought and soaring temperatures.

Wildfires have so far this month claimed at least four lives, burnt about 2.5 million acres (1 million hectares) of farmland and bush and destroyed more than 300 homes.

Powerful winds fanned around 130 fires that have been burning across New South Wales and Queensland states for several days and pushed smoke south to form a thick haze over Sydney, home to around 5 million people.

Officials said the air quality above parts of the harbour city was measured at 10 times hazardous levels on Tuesday and advised people to stay indoors as much as possible as the smoke lingers over coming days.

"We know that heatwaves cause severe illness, hospital admission and even deaths, and that people are more sensitive to heatwaves early in the season," Richard Broom, director of environmental health at NSW Health said In an emailed statement.

"The combination of heat and poor air quality adds to the risk."

In NSW, firefighters were scrambling to strengthen fire containment lines ahead of forecast higher temperatures for much of the rest of the week.

"More than 1,300 firefighters are working on these fires, undertaking backburning operations and strengthening containment lines ahead of forecast hot, dry and windy weather, with seven areas under a total fire ban," the NSW Rural Fire Service said in a statement.

The current bushfire crisis has mostly been contained to the east coast of NSW and Queensland states, but officials in South Australia warned on Tuesday that forecast near-record temperatures raises the risks in that state.

Australia's Bureau of Meteorology said temperatures in Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, will hit 42 degrees Celsius (107.6 degrees Fahrenheit) on Wednesday, which coupled with strong winds will create "catastrophic" fire danger conditions.

Strong winds stoked more than 100 fires across Australia's east coast on Tuesday, blanketing Sydney in hazardous smoke and prompting health warnings for the country's most populous city.

Strong winds stoked more than 100 fires across Australia's east coast on Tuesday, blanketing Sydney in hazardous smoke and prompting health warnings for the country's most populous city. Australia is prone to bushfires in its dry, hot summers, but fierce blazes have been sparked early, in the southern spring, by a long drought and soaring temperatures. Wildfires have so far this month claimed at least four lives, burnt about 2.5 million acres (1 million hectares) of farmland and bush and destroyed more than 300 homes. Powerful winds fanned around 130 fires that have been burning across New South Wales and Queensland states for several days and pushed smoke south to form a thick haze over Sydney, home to around 5 million people. Officials said the air quality above parts of the harbour city was measured at 10 times hazardous levels on Tuesday and advised people to stay indoors as much as possible as the smoke lingers over coming days. "We know that heatwaves cause severe illness, hospital admission and even deaths, and that people are more sensitive to heatwaves early in the season," Richard Broom, director of environmental health at NSW Health said In an emailed statement. "The combination of heat and poor air quality adds to the risk." In NSW, firefighters were scrambling to strengthen fire containment lines ahead of forecast higher temperatures for much of the rest of the week. "More than 1,300 firefighters are working on these fires, undertaking backburning operations and strengthening containment lines ahead of forecast hot, dry and windy weather, with seven areas under a total fire ban," the NSW Rural Fire Service said in a statement. The current bushfire crisis has mostly been contained to the east coast of NSW and Queensland states, but officials in South Australia warned on Tuesday that forecast near-record temperatures raises the risks in that state. Australia's Bureau of Meteorology said temperatures in Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, will hit 42 degrees Celsius (107.6 degrees Fahrenheit) on Wednesday, which coupled with strong winds will create "catastrophic" fire danger conditions.

Sydneysiders urged to stay indoors as Australian bushfire smoke blankets city

Strong winds stoked more than 100 fires across Australia's east coast on Tuesday, blanketing Sydney in hazardous smoke and prompting health warnings for the country's most populous city.

Australia is prone to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lack-of-forecast-rains-to-prolong-australian-bushfires-threat-261992">bushfires</a> in its dry, hot summers, but fierce blazes have been sparked early, in the southern spring, by a long drought and soaring temperatures.

Wildfires have so far this month claimed at least four lives, burnt about 2.5 million acres&nbsp;of farmland and bush and destroyed more than 300 homes.

Powerful winds fanned around 130 fires that have been burning across New South Wales and Queensland states for several days and pushed smoke south to form a thick haze over Sydney, home to around 5 million people.

Officials said the air quality above parts of the harbour city was measured at 10 times hazardous levels on Tuesday and advised people to stay indoors as much as possible as the smoke lingers over coming days.

"We know that heatwaves cause severe illness, hospital admission and even deaths and that people are more sensitive to heatwaves early in the season," Richard Broom, director of environmental health at NSW Health said In an emailed statement.&nbsp;"The combination of heat and poor air quality adds to the risk."

Watch: Massive bushfires in Australia

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/massive-bushfires-in-australia-bushfires-continue-to-pose-a-major-threat-261880/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">In NSW, firefighters were scrambling to strengthen <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lack-of-forecast-rains-to-prolong-australian-bushfires-threat-261992">fire containment</a> lines ahead of forecast higher temperatures for much of the rest of the week.</div>

"More than 1,300 firefighters are working on these fires, undertaking backburning operations and strengthening containment lines ahead of forecast hot, dry and windy weather, with seven areas under a total fire ban," the NSW Rural Fire Service said in a statement.

The current bushfire crisis has mostly been contained to the east coast of NSW and Queensland states, but officials in South Australia warned on Tuesday that forecast near-record temperatures raises the risks in that state.

Australia's Bureau of Meteorology said temperatures in Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, will hit 42 degrees Celsius&nbsp;on Wednesday, which coupled with strong winds will create "catastrophic" fire danger conditions.

Strong winds stoked more than 100 fires across Australia's east coast on Tuesday, blanketing Sydney in hazardous smoke and prompting health warnings for the country's most populous city. Australia is prone to bushfires in its dry, hot summers, but fierce blazes have been sparked early, in the southern spring, by a long drought and soaring temperatures. Wildfires have so far this month claimed at least four lives, burnt about 2.5 million acres of farmland and bush and destroyed more than 300 homes. Powerful winds fanned around 130 fires that have been burning across New South Wales and Queensland states for several days and pushed smoke south to form a thick haze over Sydney, home to around 5 million people. Officials said the air quality above parts of the harbour city was measured at 10 times hazardous levels on Tuesday and advised people to stay indoors as much as possible as the smoke lingers over coming days. "We know that heatwaves cause severe illness, hospital admission and even deaths and that people are more sensitive to heatwaves early in the season," Richard Broom, director of environmental health at NSW Health said In an emailed statement. "The combination of heat and poor air quality adds to the risk." Watch: Massive bushfires in Australia In NSW, firefighters were scrambling to strengthen fire containment lines ahead of forecast higher temperatures for much of the rest of the week. "More than 1,300 firefighters are working on these fires, undertaking backburning operations and strengthening containment lines ahead of forecast hot, dry and windy weather, with seven areas under a total fire ban," the NSW Rural Fire Service said in a statement. The current bushfire crisis has mostly been contained to the east coast of NSW and Queensland states, but officials in South Australia warned on Tuesday that forecast near-record temperatures raises the risks in that state. Australia's Bureau of Meteorology said temperatures in Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, will hit 42 degrees Celsius on Wednesday, which coupled with strong winds will create "catastrophic" fire danger conditions.

Sydney: People asked to stay indoors as hazardous smog from bushfires eclipses city

An Australian national has been accused of intentionally lighting a fire which led to out-of-control <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lack-of-forecast-rains-to-prolong-australian-bushfires-threat-261992">bushfires </a>in order to protect his cannabis crop.&nbsp;

The police in Australia charged a 51-year-old man, who appeared before a court on Saturday, for deliberately setting fire at Ebor in New South Wales. The fire in Ebor is about 10,000 hectares in size and is still burning even after three days.&nbsp;

The accused made a bungled attempt allegedly at backburning which intensified the fires and he didn't take any action to extinguish the flames, according to the police. Backburning is a practice in which firefighters try to clear the undergrowth that fuels the fire.&nbsp;

Authorities blame arsonists for several bushfires across badly-hit New South Wales and Queensland and appealed the residents to give information regarding this which will lead to more arrests. &nbsp;

So far, four people have been killed, more than 300 homes destroyed and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/stay-alert-millions-of-australians-brace-for-catastrophic-bushfires-261487">millions are being affected </a>because of the hazardous smoke spread by the massive bushfires. More than one million hectares of land has been razed in over a week.&nbsp;

There were 130 fires that were burning in the two Australian states on Saturday, damaging large swathes of the area which has already been ravaged by a drought.&nbsp;

On Saturday, the uncontrolled bushfires led to demands in Australia asking the country's conservative government to do more to tackle climate change. &nbsp;

Firemen in New South Wales undertook backburning as temperatures dipped on Saturday night. The fires in New South Wales are expected to deteriorate early next week.&nbsp;

Parts of Queensland are facing the risk of an extreme situation as the forecast of high temperatures, low humidity combined with storms will make life difficult for firefighters to control the fires.

Australia is prone to bushfires and scientists believe that the reason behind the fires early this season is because of climate change which is leading to a rise in temperatures and sapping of moisture from the environment.

The Australian government has ignored growing calls of limiting the use of fossil fuels, cutting greenhouse gas emissions and is eager to protect the highly lucrative mining industry.

(with inputs from AFP)

&nbsp;

An Australian national has been accused of intentionally lighting a fire which led to out-of-control bushfires in order to protect his cannabis crop. The police in Australia charged a 51-year-old man, who appeared before a court on Saturday, for deliberately setting fire at Ebor in New South Wales.

An Australian national has been accused of intentionally lighting a fire which led to out-of-control bushfires in order to protect his cannabis crop. The police in Australia charged a 51-year-old man, who appeared before a court on Saturday, for deliberately setting fire at Ebor in New South Wales. The fire in Ebor is about 10,000 hectares in size and is still burning even after three days. The accused made a bungled attempt allegedly at backburning which intensified the fires and he didn't take any action to extinguish the flames, according to the police. Backburning is a practice in which firefighters try to clear the undergrowth that fuels the fire. Authorities blame arsonists for several bushfires across badly-hit New South Wales and Queensland and appealed the residents to give information regarding this which will lead to more arrests. So far, four people have been killed, more than 300 homes destroyed and millions are being affected because of the hazardous smoke spread by the massive bushfires. More than one million hectares of land has been razed in over a week. There were 130 fires that were burning in the two Australian states on Saturday, damaging large swathes of the area which has already been ravaged by a drought. On Saturday, the uncontrolled bushfires led to demands in Australia asking the country's conservative government to do more to tackle climate change. Firemen in New South Wales undertook backburning as temperatures dipped on Saturday night. The fires in New South Wales are expected to deteriorate early next week. Parts of Queensland are facing the risk of an extreme situation as the forecast of high temperatures, low humidity combined with storms will make life difficult for firefighters to control the fires. Australia is prone to bushfires and scientists believe that the reason behind the fires early this season is because of climate change which is leading to a rise in temperatures and sapping of moisture from the environment. The Australian government has ignored growing calls of limiting the use of fossil fuels, cutting greenhouse gas emissions and is eager to protect the highly lucrative mining industry. (with inputs from AFP)

Australian man accused of starting bushfires to protect his cannabis crop