Australia braces for heightened bushfire danger as spring heatwave sets records

An intense and prolonged spring heatwave has gripped southeast Australia, breaking temperature records.
Hot, dry conditions have increased the risk of catastrophic bushfires, reminiscent of the deadly 2019-2020 season.
Total fire bans and school closures have been enacted in Sydney in response to extreme fire danger.
fires are already burning in New South Wales, with the official declaration of El Niño likely worsening conditions.
Authorities warn this may be Australia's most dangerous fire season since the Black Summer blazes four years ago.