SYDNEY, Nov 21 (NNN-XINHUA) – Sydney’s normally picturesque skyline was once again blanketed by thick smoke today (Thursday), as around 50 bushfires continued to burn across Australia’s east coast.
Deemed “hazardous” by the New South Wales (NSW) State Department of Environment, health authorities have urged schools to keep children indoors, during lunch breaks.
“It’s important that if you do have children, just try and keep them indoors or discourage them from exercising too much outside,” Richard Broome from NSW Health told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.
“They’re often more active, particularly outdoors, so they’re more likely to inhale the smoke in large quantities.”
For the second time in just two days, Sydney’s famed Opera House and Harbour Bridge were entirely blocked out by the haze.
With similar conditions on Tuesday, local media reported that around 60 people, mainly with respiratory problems like asthma, have been treated in hospitals, due to the poor air quality.
According to Rural Fire Service NSW Commissioner, Shane Fitzsimmons, with more warm weather on the way, it appears likely the severe conditions will persist for days to come, as over 1,000 personnel continue to battle blazes across the state.
With winds of up to 60 kph forecast across the southern border region, Fitzsimmons said, it could present significant challenges for fire crews.
Six people have died in the state as a result of bushfires over the past few weeks. And around 600 homes have also been destroyed.– NNN-XINHUA