Heatwaves are raging in Western Australia, the Northern Territory and parts of New South Wales as tempertures soar near or above 104 degrees. In addition to the hot temps is the threat and conditions for bush fires. Fire crews say the largest blaze near the town of Northcliffe is still raging and recent rains has help contain the flames. Severe heatwave conditons are forecast to spread to east and sending temps in record breaking highs.
Warnings in are on high alert as forecasters lookout for favorable conditions for more bush fires. In addition wind conditions add to the already blazing bushes which has spread around 200,000 acres of bushland. At least one coast town of Windy Harbour has sent some residents fleeing to the a nearby beach.
In a new development on Friday, February 05, 2015 some residents near Murrindindi Saw Mill were awarded in a settlement with survivors of a huge bushfire which destoryed the town of Maryville in Victoria in 2009. This fire killed 40 people and destroyed hundreds of homes. This bush fire was started when an electrical conductor malfunctioned.
Meanwhile, the heat is on and there may be more intense developments for more fires and blazing temps to come.