Most of the world knows that Victoria burned on Saturday. These were the worst bushfires in Australia’s history. They have been declared the worst natural disaster in Australia’s history.
More than 100 people have been confirmed dead. As the emergency services are slowly sifting through houses and burnt out cars in the most affected areas, this toll is bound to rise. More than 500 houses have been destroyed, and most people have got out with little more than their clothes. Some managed to get their families out, too.
The destructive power of these fires is due to our hot, dry summer; a day of 47 degree temperatures and roaring winds and a cool change that came without rain and suddenly changed the direction of winds. We currently also have the northern half of our country underwater in huge floods. If you didn’t believe in climate change before, please reconsider.
If you would like to donate to help rebuild houses and pay for things like toiletries, clothes, food and temporary accommodation, please donate through this online form. Donations of products are not as useful, as the victims have nowhere to put things.
The Victorian Bushfires Appeal 2009
Aussie blood stores have been reduced by the risk of mosquito borne disease in flood-ravaged areas and the recent southern heat-wave, so blood will be urgently needed over the next month or so. Australians should register their interest online to make an appointment.
Make an appointment to donate blood
And a hat tip to our wonderful Country Fire Authority and Metropolitan Fire Brigade. You are wonderful. You have saved so many, and you are doing our worst jobs at the moment.
[…] like to send my regards to all those back in Australia affected by the terrible bushfires – a truly shocking Saturday. Kia Kaha to all my Australian […]
Great edition, Cris!
Don’t forget a big pat on the back to the medics and the police as well. They probably have one of the hardest jobs at the moment as they are in stage 2 of recovery – sifting and moving to find remains. I am sure that despite their training this is not an easy job.