Australian Bushfire(2019-2020) by Sharani Beeram

 Australian Bushfire(2019-2020)

The Australian bushfire season of 2019-2020 was devastating and one of the most severe in the

country's history. It began unusually early in June 2019 and continued well into 2020, impacting vast

areas across several states, notably New South Wales, Victoria, and South Australia.

EXTENT: The fires burned approximately 18.6 million hectares (46 million acres) of land, destroyed

over 5,900 buildings (including homes), and claimed the lives of at least 33 people. The smoke from

the fires also caused severe air quality issues across large parts of the country.

IMPACT: The fires significantly affected wildlife, with estimates suggesting that over a billion

animals were killed or displaced. Several species, including the koala and glossy black cockatoo,

were particularly hard hit, leading to concerns about long-term impacts on biodiversity.

CAUSES:

1. The intensity and early onset of the bushfire season sparked renewed debates on climate

change and its role in exacerbating fire conditions. Australia experienced record-breaking

temperatures and prolonged drought conditions leading up to the fires

2. Climate change is lengthening the fire seasons in many regions, including Australia. Warmer

temperatures and reduced rainfall contribute to drier vegetation, which acts as fuel for fires.

This prolonged fire season increases the likelihood of more frequent and intense bushfire

events

3. The Australian Bureau of Meteorology and other agencies use the Forest Fire Danger Index

(FFDI) to assess fire risk. Studies have shown that climate change is increasing the FFDI in

many parts of Australia, indicating higher fire danger during peak fire season.

4. Overall, the 2019-2020 Australian bushfire season underscored the urgent need for action on

climate change to reduce the risk of future catastrophic fire events. It emphasised the

importance of addressing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to changing climate

conditions to protect communities, ecosystems, and economies from escalating fire risks

COMMUNITY IMPACT: Beyond the physical destruction, the bushfires had a profound emotional

and psychological impact on the communities affected, with many people losing their homes and

livelihoods.

Preparedness: Preparedness for bushfires is crucial for minimising their impact on

communities, ecosystems, and infrastructure. In Australia, where bushfires are a recurring natural

hazard, extensive efforts are made to prepare for and respond to fire emergencies. Here are key

aspects of bushfire preparedness:

1. Early Warning Systems: Advanced early warning systems are in place to alert communities

about bushfire threats. This includes emergency alert systems that use SMS, phone calls,

and digital channels to notify residents in at-risk areas. The Australian Government Bureau of

Meteorology also issues fire weather warnings based on meteorological conditions.

2. Fire Management Agencies: Australia has dedicated fire management agencies at federal,

state, and local levels responsible for fire prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery.

These agencies include the Rural Fire Service (RFS) in New South Wales, the Country Fire

Authority (CFA) in Victoria, and similar organisations in other states.

3. Community Engagement: Community engagement is a cornerstone of bushfire

preparedness. Residents are encouraged to develop and maintain bushfire survival plans,

which outline actions to take during a fire. Community meetings, information sessions, and

education programs promote awareness of fire risks and preparedness measures.

4. Fuel Management: Fuel reduction strategies aim to manage vegetation to reduce fire

intensity and spread. This includes prescribed burning (controlled fires conducted under


favourable conditions), mechanical clearing, and strategic placement of firebreaks to create

barriers to fire spread.

5. Infrastructure and Building Standards: Building codes and standards in bushfire-prone

areas require homes and structures to be constructed or retrofitted with fire-resistant

materials and designs. This includes fire-resistant roofing, ember-proofing vents, and

clearance around buildings to reduce fire risk.

6. Interagency Cooperation: Collaboration between fire management agencies, emergency

services, government departments, and community organisations is essential for effective

bushfire preparedness and response. Regular training exercises and joint planning efforts

ensure a coordinated approach during fire emergencies.

Overall, the 2019-2020 Australian bushfire season highlighted the vulnerability of Australia's

ecosystems and communities to increasingly severe fire conditions, underscoring the urgent need for

effective climate action and preparedness strategies in the face of future challenges.

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