Sizzling temperatures hit as wildfires persist
PERTH, Australia — A code red was issued in South Australia on Friday as temperatures hit 108 Fahrenheit in the state’s capital, while firefighters battling wildfires in New South Wales established containment lines in cooler conditions ahead of an expected heatwave this weekend.
South Australia last week had 86 homes destroyed after wildfires flared in catastrophic conditions, as its capital Adelaide endured a heatwave peaking at a sizzling 115 F. There was respite during the Christmas period, but oppressive conditions returned Friday and are set to continue until Monday.
The heatwave prompted the South Australian government to declare a code red, which aims to ensure the homeless are kept cool and hydrated. A code red watch also provides other services, including shelter options and additional food services.
The fire danger rating was severe in Adelaide, while the rest of the state was mostly between high and very high.
About 1,300 firefighters in New South Wales on Friday established containment lines in cooler conditions. Around 70 fires, however, continued to burn across the state with almost half of them not contained.
“Because these fires are large, they’re complex and they’re very prone to the elements. Once these weather conditions turn around, we know we’re going to see increased fire activity,” New South Wales Rural Fire Service Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons said.
About 12.35 million acres of land have burned nationwide over the past few months, with nine people killed and more than 950 homes destroyed. New South Wales, the country’s most populous state, has received the brunt of the damage, with around 850 homes razed.