The bush fires that have unfortunately plagued many parts of Australia since late 2019 have impacted millions of Australians while the world anxiously watches.

“In the worst-hit state, New South Wales, fire has affected more than five million hectares, destroying more than 2,000 houses and forcing thousands to seek shelter elsewhere,” according to website BBC news in their article “Australia fires: A visual guide to the Bushfire Crisis”.

Since the fires began in November 2019, they have killed over 28 people, including 4 firefighters. 

While the fires obviously have had a major impact on Australia and Australians alike, it has already began to negatively impact the rest of the world.

“Plumes of ‘black carbon’ have traveled more than 7,000 miles from the fires,” said BBC.“Black carbon is harmful to human health and contributes to climate change.” 

The fires have contributed to the misplacement and loss of property to many Australian citizens.

“Last I heard, the fires were close to some people I know, so they had to evacuate their houses,” said Australian native Tia Forsyth.

“They were prepared, so they took important stuff and their pets and headed out. This was before I left Australia, and I haven’t heard from them since.”

When asked if she believed the fires could be attributed to climate change, she responded saying, “No, I don’t think so.”

The fires in Australia have negatively impacted people’s everyday lives due to the amount of smoke that has traveled all over the country.

“When we went to the airport in Sydney, we could smell and see the smoke.” said Freya Clarkson, who also resides in Australia.

Whether or not this is a situation attributed to climate change, arsonists, or just thanks to a bad fire season, there is no denying that the Australian people and animals alike have suffered through one of the roughest fire seasons they have ever seen.