Australia - Wildfires - Disaster Alert

February 11, 2009 

Background

Since February 7, wildfires in the southeastern Australian state of Victoria have destroyed more than 1,033 homes and left more than 181 people dead and hundreds injured.  The number of dead is likely to rise as fires continue and emergency responders reach new areas. To date, more than 815,447 acres have been destroyed.  Firefighters are working to construct containment lines around more than 20 separate fires, the largest of which is nearly 50 miles wide.

Key Developments 

·      The Australian Red Cross has deployed more than 400 volunteers and staff to operate evacuation centers in 20 locations across the state of Victoria.    

·      Together with the Australian Federal Government, the Australian Red Cross has announced a domestic Victorian Bushfire Appeal, and is accepting international donations through this appeal. 

·      The American Red Cross is working to coordinate US corporate donations and expects to announce financial support to the appeal in the coming weeks.

Map of Affected Area

Victoria State Government -Summary Overview of Wildfires - February 10, 2009

Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement Response

Australian Red Cross

• The Australian Red Cross has deployed more than 400 volunteers and staff to operate 20 evacuation centers across the state of Victoria.  Currently these response workers are focused on meeting basic needs, catering and first aid for emergency service workers. 
• In addition, the Australian Red Cross is providing family linking support.  To date, over 15,000 inquiries have been received, and 1,972 people have been reunited. 
• Together with the Australian Federal Government, it has announced a joint domestic Victorian Bushfire Appeal, which will accept international donations.

International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (International Federation)

• The International Federation's Asia Pacific Disaster Management Unit is taking the lead on International Federation coordination and support activities for the response. 
• The International Federation has indicated that it will not be issuing any appeals.

American Red Cross

• The American Red Cross is coordinating US corporate donations and expects to announce financial support to the appeal in the coming weeks.

• The American Red Cross will continue to monitor the situation and communicate directly with Australian counterparts, and stands ready to provide further assistance if requested.

The information in this report is compiled from a number of sources including the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, the U.S. Agency for International Development and involved national Red Cross/Red Crescent societies.  The American Red Cross strives to provide the most accurate and timely information possible.