2019-2020 Australian Bushfires

About

The 2019-2020 Australian bushfire season, known as the Black Summer, was one of the most severe and catastrophic on record. It began in June 2019 and continued until May 2020, affecting multiple regions across Australia, including New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, and South Australia. The fires burned an estimated 24.3 million hectares, resulting in significant environmental and ecological damage. This season saw over 3,000 buildings destroyed, including nearly 3,000 homes, and at least 34 people lost their lives. The bushfires had profound impacts on biodiversity, with an estimated one billion animals perishing, and substantial economic costs, including damage to infrastructure and losses in industries like tourism and agriculture. The fires also led to severe air pollution, affecting public health and prompting widespread evacuations. The Australian government responded with significant recovery efforts, establishing the National Bushfire Recovery Agency and allocating substantial funds for relief and rebuilding. The event highlighted the urgency of addressing climate change and its role in intensifying such disasters.