Hi Guys... I live 10km from Churchill, one of the large fires, and work at one of the Power Stations threatened by them. Saturday was 46oC and high winds which made things worse when the fires started. The skies turned dark orange with all the smoke in the air, quite disturbing. Many friends have evacuated and some have lost houses and even loved ones 8^( The small weather change brought some relief in 5 minutes of rain! that covered the area in water born soot. Later rains helped more but they were still short lived. The fires here, as well as the other main ones, are still very much out of control. Deaths are rising, currently 133, doubtless there will be many more as people are being discovered perished in their cars after leaving too late. Power supplies were under threat, lessened now but still vulnerable. All in all a very sad situation and a long way to go. Some more information on news.com.au and other news wires. Hope that helps give a better picture. cheers -S