This archive report was first published on 19 November 2019.
Published on November 19, 2019, official data revealed that pollution in Sydney had reached hazardous levels, with the highest readings of PM 2.5 particulates in the city's northwest reaching 186 parts per million.
This is comparable to the pollution levels in Delhi, prompting residents to be warned to avoid outdoor exercise.
Meanwhile, bushfires have been wreaking havoc across New South Wales and Queensland since the start of the fire season in September, claiming six lives and destroying hundreds of homes.
Although cooler weather brought some respite for firefighters in recent days, higher temperatures, gusting winds, and low humidity are expected to raise the bushfire threat again on Wednesday.
More than 110 fires are currently burning across Australia's east, with dozens of the blazes still uncontained.
As the country grapples with the devastating consequences of its fire season, scientists warn that climate change is pushing temperatures higher and sapping moisture from the environment, leading to more extreme and earlier fire seasons.
Despite growing calls to curb fossil fuels and drastically cut greenhouse gas emissions, Australia's conservative government remains committed to protecting its lucrative mining industry.
