It all began more than a week ago when more than 130 bush fires burned, leaving three people dead and 150 properties destroyed.
According to media reports, hot, dry weather was not the only reason for bush fires in Australia. This time, it is reported that a group of children, specifically a 16-year-old boy, who may have started the fire, which has grown into this horrendous blaze across wide areas in Queensland and surrounding areas. Unfortunately, Erratic winds have fueled the fire to spread faster, making it difficult to contain it by firefighters.
Queensland Fire and Emergency Service (QFES) Acting Commissioner Michael Wassing said only significant rainfall would put the fire out. Without it, the blaze is expected to burn for weeks. He said the fire area was difficult to bring under control because many areas leading up to the township were steep and inaccessible. The bushfire increased in size from 4,000 hectares to 13,000 hectares over the weekend.
He said the fire area was difficult to bring under control because many areas leading up to the township were steep and inaccessible. Deputy Commissioner Roche said it was unclear how many structures had been destroyed at Crows Nest as crews had not been able to access the area due to the danger of falling trees. "There are a lot of trees still burning ... we don't want to put our crews in areas where trees may fall on appliances or across roadways."
About 38 aircraft are helping to battle the blaze as conditions remain extreme. However, the 737 aircraft that was being used to drop fire retardant on bushfires is now headed back to New South Wales.
ABC Emergency has sourced advice from official agencies on how to plan for a bushfire, including preparing a survival kit.
There are currently about 70 fires burning across the state, none at emergency level.
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