Widespread wildfires have ravaged through Australia, leaving dozens dead and thousands of homes destroyed.
What happened: The wildfires have been the worst seen in decades, leaving much of the country burned and devastated. The fires raged since late July when the fire season began, CNN reports.
- 24 people have died in Australia from fires in the state of New South Wales.
- 1,300 houses were destroyed.
- “State and federal authorities are struggling to contain the massive blazes, even with firefighting assistance from other countries, including the United States,” according to CNN.
Where: The fires have raged across the country. New South Wales have been the area hit hardest by the fires, according to the Wall Street Journal.
- The suburbs and homes outside of major cities like Sydney and Melbourne have also been damaged from the wildfires,
What caused the fires: Hot and dry weather, coupled with major summer heat, led to several of the fires.
- Lightning strikes in dry areas increased the load of fires, too.
Why it’s worse: Per BBC News, this year’s fires have been worse than normal.
“Humans are sometimes to blame for starting the fires, but they are also often sparked by natural causes, such as lightning striking dry vegetation.
“Once fires have started, other areas are at risk, with embers blown by the wind causing blazes to spread to new areas.
“Bush fires themselves can also drive thunderstorms, increasing the risk of lightning strikes and further fires.”
Reaction: The United States sent a crew of 20 veteran firefighters from California to Australia to battle the wildfires, according to The Associated Press.
Celebs: A number of celebrities have shared their thoughts, condolences and worry about the wildfires in Australia. Several celebrities opened up about the issue during the Golden Globe Awards Sunday night, according to the Los Angeles Times.
- Russell Crowe: “Make no mistake, the tragedy unfolding in Australia is climate change-based. We need to act based on science, move our global workforce to renewable energy and respect our planet for the unique and amazing place it is. That way, we all have a future.”
- Ellen DeGeneres: “Before I say anything. Australia, I love you. My heart goes out to everyone who is suffering in Australia … all the animals that we’ve lost.”
- Cate Blanchett: “When one country faces a climate disaster, we all face a climate disaster.”
- Sarah Snook: “I’m totally for Russell’s comments. Our country is burning and we need to figure out a way to combat it. I think there’s a lot of attention on the issue now, but we need to act preventatively.”
- Phoebe Waller-Bridge: “We’ve hatched an amazing plan with Ralph & Russo, our Australian designers, who made this incredible couture suit which is the most extraordinary thing I’ve ever worn, and we’re going to auction it and the money that is raised from it will go toward relief in Australia. I’m really excited to be part of that.”
How to help: Want to help provide aid? You can donate to the following organizations, according to Business Insider.