Wildfires Ravage 90,000 Hectares in Western Tasmania, Communities Evacuated

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Devastating bushfires in western Tasmania have destroyed approximately 90,000 hectares of wilderness, including areas of the renowned Overland Track. Starting from lightning strikes on February 3, over 20 active fires have formed a perimeter of about 1,200 kilometers. As conditions worsen, authorities have called for evacuations in towns like Zeehan and Corinna. Firefighters, facing gusts of up to 80 km/h, have noted that it may take weeks to bring the blazes under control.

Jeremy Smith, Tasmania’s commissioner for fire and emergency services, commented that controlling the fires will be a "long hard slog," requiring determined efforts to secure the fire ground, meter by meter. Aerial surveys reported significant damage to infrastructure along the Overland Track, including the destruction of a hut and severe damage to a bridge and boardwalk. Despite the devastation, firefighters have successfully preserved an ancient grove of Huon pine trees.

Alien Collier, a local business owner, expressed concerns about tourism impacts as evacuation measures were undertaken during peak season. Rain has provided brief relief, but residents remain vigilant as conditions evolve.

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