56 fires scorch eastern Australia; state of emergency declared - Allie Gonzales

Summary:
Hundreds of homes have been either damaged or destroyed by dozens of horific bush fires raging eastern austrailia. Unfortunately, officials fear that condition could get much worse. Volunteer firefighter Michael Green, who made a harrowing drive through the fire lines to his home in the mountain town of Dargan, said he and his wife could feel the intense heat through their windows. The fire had passed, but burned trees were still glowing red and the hot spots "were still quite severe," he said. Despite the risk, they had to make sure they're house and dog were ok. The Springwood fire destroyed at least 193 homes and damaged another 109. In the Mount Victoria fire, seven homes have been destroyed and one damaged. Both fires were sparked by power lines that had been buffeted by strong winds. At least one death has been reported. A 63-year-old man died of a suspected heart attack Friday while defending his home against a blaze on the New South Wales Central Coast, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation reported.Forecasters are calling for hot, dry and windy conditions over the next few days,  yet they are doing everything they can to prevent more fires from startling up. 

Analysis:
It's really sad to see what Austrailia is struggling with. Fire is never fun to mess with and can be such a hassle to put out. Plus the damage it can cause is just too horrible to even think about. I really hope austrailia can overcome these fires or at least ease these horrible conditions.

http://www.cnn.com/2013/10/20/world/asia/australia-fires/index.html?hpt=wo_c2