Victorian Bushfires - Hell On Earth vs Ash Wednesday
Up until February 7th 2009, the day known as Ash Wednesday (February 16th 1983) was all but the worst Bushfire Disaster to every hit Victoria. Within twelve hours, more than 180 fires fanned by winds of up to 110 km (68 mph) per hour caused widespread destruction across the states of Victoria and South Australia. Years of severe drought and extreme weather combined to create one of Australia’s worst fire days in a century. The fires are the second deadliest bushfire disaster in Australian history—only the 2009 Victorian bushfires have claimed more lives. The Ash Wednesday Fires claimed 75 lives in total (47 in Victoria) and destroyed some 2500 properties and homes. The Victorian Bushfires of 2009 have so far claimed 201 lives and destroyed 1839 homes.
Below is a Video that looks at the day known as “Hell On Earth” in comparison to Ash Wednesday. Eerily similar in nature, both days brought widespread devastation and grief to the people of Victoria.
To support those affected by the Victorian Bushfires of 2009 please follow the Red Cross link on this blog and donate whatever you can. Even if it is merely 5 dollars it will all help to rebuild the lives of those who have lost everything.
Thank you for your support during the aftermath of this horrific tragedy.
