The fires and floods in Australia have made the news world wide.
It is now officially Australia's Worst Bush Fire Disaster. There have been terrible fires roaring out of control in southeastern Australia - mainly in the State of Victoria. Melbourne is the capitol city of Victoria. There have been over 750 homes burned down. 108 people have been confirmed dead with more expected.
There are currently 5 fires raging out of control. Victoria has also been hit with record breaking temperatures: 43 C = over 100 degrees F, for days.
Fortunately, it has turned cooler today, so those battling the fires have a chance to try to gain control - but even still they are predicting another 3 or 4 days for containment.
Two people have been arrested because they are suspected of setting a fire.
In the Central Coast of New South Wales, a man has been arrested for setting fires near Gosford - not far from where we live. On Friday night, there was heavy particulate in the air when Dave got off the train in Woy Woy. On Saturday morning, there was smoke and haze in the air at our home....but it cleared during the day.
Here are some links: ABC News with video http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2009/02/09/2485712.htm; Herald Sun picture gallery http://www.news.com.au/heraldsun/gallery/0,22010,5037339-5006020,00.html#
In Northern Queensland, there are massive floods - specifically in Ingham. Fortunately, the flood waters have begun to recede.
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Update: The death toll stands at 181. There have been more then 1,000 homes burned to the ground too. The weather is cooler and there has been some rain, so that helps. The outpouring of money from the public is amazing! Over 30million dollars have been raised so far, with more coming in and fundraisers planned everywhere. The blood donations are coming in too.
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