News Flash on the Australian Fires

Bushfires are not a rare event in Australia. Generally, these bush fires are started by lightning strikes or sometimes even by people. This year’s fires started in the region of Queensland and New South Wales. But it was the New South Wales area that was affected the most. 

Many charities and celebrities have donated money in order to, help the animals in Australia and the countless firefighters who risk their lives. So far there are three reported firefighter deaths. Though the Prime Minister of Australia, Scott Morrison, stated that he would give provide funding towards the firefighters, he is under pressure due to the criticism that the Australian government didn’t implement an action plan to combat climate change crisis currently affecting the country, thus resulting in such deadly fires. 

These fires also caused the death of half a billion Australian wildlife in the New South Wales area alone. It is also reported that around 18 million ares of land are destroyed in that region as well. That being said, the greatest devastation is arguably Kangaroo Island. Known for being a central hub for wildlife, farming and general tourism, it is burned to a point of being completely unrecognizable. Not only is the land completely barren, but a lot of wildlife has perished. However, many animals were rescued by firefighters as well as volunteer vets helping injured animals.            

 Many are wondering what they can do to help Australia recover. Here are all the different charities you can donate to help: First, the most reliable websites you can donate to are the Embassy of Australia and the Australian Red Cross. For charities where all the proceeds go to supporting wildlife, you can donate to the non-profit wildlife rehabilitation Kola Hospital as well as the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital established by Steve and Teri Irwan. Even Fashion brands like Wholesome Culture are selling shirts to help out Australia. 

On the positive side, the fires are dying down thanks to the massive amount of rain and the support from celebrities, like Chris Hemsworth, who have donated to help Australia. 

Sources: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7

Photos: Her Campus Media Library

 

• american
• animals
• australia
• climate change
• fire
• HCAU