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Maps Show How Much Of Europe Would Be Affected By Australian Bush Fires

Maps Show How Much Of Europe Would Be Affected By Australian Bush Fires

It's hoped the images will inspire people to donate to the relief funds

Dominic Smithers

Dominic Smithers

For the past few months, bushfires have been raging across Australia, with thousands being evacuated from their homes and authorities working around the clock to get the flames under control.

So far, around five million hectares of the country have been affected. But in a bid to help more people understand the true scale of the disaster, a man has created a set of maps to show how the fires would affect Europe and the UK.

The results are utterly shocking.

Posting the images to his Facebook page, Oliver Oldfield-Hodge wrote: "About 5 million hectares have burned in the Aussie bush fires so far.. some rough maps to put that in perspective for our UK lot... fingers crossed for some rain and thoughts out to the firefighters and those affected."

Facebook/Google Earth

Since the pictures were first posted, they have gone on to be shared across social media platforms, with Oliver and others urging people to donate to a host of charities, including the Regional Fire Service, the Red Cross and the Salvation Army Distress Fund.

This comes as reports describe how a fast-moving bushfire is currently on course to hit Mogo Zoo, near Batemans Bay.

The Daily Telegraph reported the zoo had been placed in lockdown and the animals had been locked inside, with everyone hoping for the best. Sprinklers have been working overtime to try and protect it before the fire arrives.

But with firefighters and trucks unable to get into the area, the zoo's fate hangs in the balance.

Facebook/Google Earth

The former owner of the zoo, Sally Padey, told The Daily Telegraph: "I hope they are going to be OK. It's the worst thing to happen in the history of Mogo Zoo."

All precautions have been made for the animals, and staff at the zoo are doing their best to ensure that everyone gets out safely. So far, there have been no injuries or deaths at the attraction.

The blaze is a part of the Clyde Mountain Fire and it's currently at an Emergency level.

The Rural Fire Service has written this advice: "A strong southerly change is expected across the fireground. This will push the fire in a northerly direction. While you may not be at threat now, the fire may reach your area.

"Seven dangerous fires are burning between Batemans Bay and the Victorian border. These fires moved quickly this morning. They pose a serious threat to life. Do not be in their path. Avoid bushland areas. If the path is clear, move to larger towns or beaches to take shelter."

Facebook/Google Earth

A separate fire on the Victorian coast has also captured the attention of Australians across the country.

Pictures uploaded to social media show Mallacoota coated in an apocalyptic red glow as the intense inferno edges closer to the coastline. Thousands of people have been evacuated to the beach and many are donning life jackets in case they need to jump into the ocean.

The sun should have shone through early this morning - however, for people who were evacuated to the wharf, it was nearly pitch black until 9am.

Featured Image Credit: PA

Topics: World News, Bushfires, Interesting, Australia