Black Saturday Hazards Flashcards
When did the Black Saturday wildfire occur?
February 2009
Where is Black Saturday?
Australia, state of victoria
What were some risks and vulnerabilities of Black Saturday?
> Victoria is covered in Eucalyptus forest which is oil-rich and burns easily.
> Temperatures of over 40 degrees, with low humidity and periods of drought.
> The area has high winds, therefore spreading fire quickly.
> Many power cables around the area, can be brought down by weather conditions.
> Depopulation has led to a decline in services in rural areas, e.g. a lack of fire services.
How many deaths?
173 deaths
Howe many properties were destroyed?
3,500 properties destroyed.
how many people were displaced?
7,000 people displaced
How many acres of land were burnt?
1 million acres
How many heads of livestock were killed?
12,000
How many boundary fences were destroyed? km
1000km
How many animals perished?
over 1 million
How many residents were disrupted by electricity supplies?
60,000
What was the total cost of insurance claims?
1.2 billion dollars
What happened to empty properties?
They were looted
What was introduced after the fire in order to minimise the impacts of future fires?
A new fire hazard warning system was announced in October 2009 This allows the weather to be predicted and on high-risk days, residents are advised to, leave their houses.
New building regulations were introduced for bush fire prone areas.
Debate whether housing should be banned in high risk areas
Why were the government criticised after the fire?
The government were criticised for rebuilding in Marysville, which has been 90% destroyed during black Saturday.
