Quote - I live in the outer eastern suburbs of Melbourne, yesterday the weather seemed to break all records (46.4 degrees C, or roughly 114 degrees F). We were surrounded by smoke haze, and even though I was not directly affected (ie was still safe) it was really frightening.

Thank God its much cooler today, but the truth is that numerous lives (as well as property) were lost in the rural areas yesterday in South-Eastern Australia.

Not to pry, by where are you?  Glad to hear the area isn't in immediate danger yet.  My friend is in Rowville.

Fires are a part of every summer here in Alaska, tho they are not very publicized.  My first summer here we were at one point cut off by highway by the fires from any other main cities, and have seen firsthand the total devastation left behind.