18 minutes agoAustralia's high temperatures return, fire threat increases
Periskopi(6 years ago)
(6 years ago)Authorities in Australia's southeast called on residents to leave because of the return of extreme heat and strong winds that are expected to exacerbate the situation created by massive fires. On Friday, temperatures are expected to rise above 100 degrees Fahrenheit [30 ° C], ending rain and lower temperatures offered [...]
On Friday, temperatures are expected to increase by over 30 degrees Celsius, ending the rain and lower temperatures that offered temporary relief to firefighters struggling with fires from September. As a result of a three-year drought, the region has become a land of dried bush that has driven disaster.
The rising temperatures have prompted officials in Victoria state to extend the period under which the state will be in emergency.
Over 200 fires across the country have caused at least 26 people to die and have destroyed some eight million acres of land and more than 2 thousand homes. The smoke of fires has covered Sydney and other cities for weeks and has reached as far as New Zealand or Brazil.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison, who has faced strong criticism over responding to the situation, has made a $1.4 billion fund available to help residents, businesses, and farmers.
Scientists say there is no doubt that man - made climate changes have contributed to the extremely devastating situation that has caused the fires this year.
