Australia’s devastating bushfires have caused the deaths of at least 33 people and an estimated 1 billion animals. However, positive news has emerged that all bush and grass fires in New South Wales are now contained.
Consequently, more than 11 million hectares of land have been destroyed this season. The NSW Rural Fire Service has described this as a “very traumatic, exhausting, and anxious bushfire season so far.” Deputy Commissioner Rob Rogers stated, “After what has been a truly devastating fire season for firefighters and residents who suffered through so much, all fires are now contained in New South Wales. This is great news.” He further noted, “Not all fires are out – there is still some fire activity on the far south of the state – but all fires are contained, allowing us to focus on helping people rebuild.”
Moreover, recent heavy rain has significantly helped to extinguish the fires that began six months ago. This alleviation was essential, given the prolonged drought that Australia experienced over the past three years, which left forests extremely dry and prone to flames. The torrential downpour played a crucial role in putting out the Currowan fire and the Lindfield Park Road fire, although these storms did also cause other challenges, such as power outages and high tides. The Lindfield Park Road fire burned in the Port Macquarie region for 210 days, ultimately destroying 858 hectares, including 400 hectares of peat soil.
The final two fires to be contained were located in the Snowy Valley and Monaro areas. While some areas are still alight, the blaze is now under control and will not spread further. Rainfall in the area has been referred to as miraculous, particularly because the long-term forecast predicted an 80% chance of below-average rainfall this summer.
