Australian Bush Fire death toll crosses 200
(20 Feb 2009)

Australian Bush Fire death toll crosses 200 Red Cross stated on 19th February 2009, that the death toll from bushfires in the eastern Australia has risen to 208. Four fires are still burning across the state of Victoria and most of the fires except one are under control according to the Country Fire Authority.

The fire is burning in the area of Narbethong, about an hour north of Melbourne. Residents in that area are being asked to action their fire plans. The Red Cross stated that it has teams in 13 locations across Victoria to help with first aid, food, and personal support. Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd announced a national day of mourning Sunday to honor the victims of the bushfires and recognize the efforts of emergency workers. The fires have destroyed more than 1,800 homes and displaced about 7,000 people. At the height of the fires, about three dozen separate blazes were burning.