We've seen the video. Massive wildfires destroying large areas of Australia and many homes, businesses and lives.
At least 24 have died since the outbreak of these fires, any many more remain missing. In addition, millions of animals have perished.
According to the NSW Rural Fire Service, 130 fires were actively burning as of Jan 6. Over 1,500 homes have been destroyed.
The size of the affected areas is hard to comprehend. In just one Australian state, New South Wales, 50,000 sq km (about 19,000 sq mi) have already burned since July 1. To put that into context, the state of Ohio is about 44,000 square miles.
These fires have burned an area the size of over 40% of Ohio.
The hottest months in Australia are December, January, and February. This is also the time of year with the highest annual rainfall totals, however According to the Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology, the climate outlook for eastern Australia is average to drier than normal. All of this is coming on the heels of the driest November on record for Australia. Southeastern parts of Australia, including New South Wales, Queensland, and South Australia, have been in a rainfall deficit since 2017. Prolonged drought has dried vegetation and allowed fires to spread quickly.
Up to 50 fires remain uncontained.
If you'd like to donate visit the Australian Red Cross or WIRES, an organization committed to helping Australian wildlife affected by these fires.