Over 50 wildfires raze eastern Australia, threatening urban areas

More than 50 wildfires raged throughout the eastern Australian state of New South Wales on Monday, including one in Port Stephens that has already burned some 6,600 hectares and is now threatening urban areas.


Firefighters have urged the Port Stephens' residents in Balickera, Karuah and Limeburners Creek to be on alert to the possibility that the 80-kilometer front could spread, as a result of temperatures above 30 degrees and strong winds.

"Fire activity has increased in the area," New South Wales Rural Fire Service Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons said, as cited by Channel 9 news.

In total, there are 52 active fires in this state, 12 of which firefighters are still unable to control.

So far Authorities have not reported any injuries or fatalities due to the blazes, though it is believed that some houses have been damaged.
 EFE-EPA
7/11/16