Wildfires are uncontrolled fires that occur in natural areas such as forests, grasslands, and brush prairies. They can be ignited by natural causes, such as lightning, or by human activities, including campfires, discarded cigarettes, and arson. Wildfires spread rapidly due to dry vegetation, windy conditions, and other environmental factors. These fires can lead to significant environmental damage, including destruction of wildlife habitats, soil erosion, and air pollution. Additionally, wildfires pose threats to human safety and property, often necessitating evacuations and firefighting efforts. They play a complex role in ecosystems, as they can also stimulate new growth and maintain certain habitats. However, increasing instances of wildfires are often associated with climate change, prolonged droughts, and human encroachment on natural areas.
Emergency Declared in Otways as Bushfire Rages On In a significant and alarming development, **campers and residents** in the Otways region of Victoria's south-west coast are facing an out-of-control bushfire…