Growing concern in Australia about a new "Black Summer"
Concerns about devastating forest fires in Australia in the upcoming summer season are growing. The state-run Australasian Fire Authorities Council (Afac), which is responsible for fighting bushfires, warned in a new forecast of extremely hot and dry weather conditions in large parts of the fifth continent.
Coupled with the three previous wet years, which have led to dense undergrowth and strong grass growth, there is an increased risk, especially in the states of Queensland and New South Wales on the east coast and in the Northern Territory, the organization announced on Thursday.
There is also an increased risk in other states in the coming weeks and months, it said. Many of the particularly threatened regions were already affected by the devastating "Black Summer" of 2019-2020. Back then, weeks of bushfires devastated more than twelve million hectares of land and countless animals died or were displaced. Pictures of koalas with singed fur and burnt paws went around the world at the time.
Population should prepare for the worst
Afac called on the population to prepare for the worst now. "Wherever you live, work or are visiting this summer, you should know where to find bushfire information, prepare your property and talk to family and friends about what you will do in an emergency," said chief executive Rob Webb.
The authority had already warned of extremely severe fires for the Australian spring and summer months ago. Since then, there have already been several serious bushfires, for example west of Brisbane and in a suburb of the metropolis of Perth. At least two firefighters have died in action, and in October a 56-year-old man died in New South Wales while trying to protect his farm from the flames.
The extreme weather conditions predicted by Afac could potentially lead to another devastating period of bushfires, like the "Black Summer" of 2019-2020 that destroyed over twelve million hectares of land and affected countless wildlife. Preparation is crucial, as Afac advises the population to be aware of bushfire information, prepare their properties, and discuss emergency plans with loved ones, regardless of their location within Australia during the summer.
Source: www.dpa.com
