Troubled times

I need to share my sadness with you today Blippers.
We have a huge crisis in Australia right now with an unprecedented number of emergency-alert bushfires mainly down the east coast but spreading.  It is most alarming as it is prior to our usual summer fire season and there are twice as many fires (17) of this magnitude as ever before in recorded history, burning all at once. Many are out of control and linking together.  This is due to the bone dry conditions left by this long drought. Strong changeable winds are causing tremendous difficulties for our brave fire fighter volunteers.  150 homes have been lost, several people have died and some unaccounted for.  
OK in my area thus far - Tuesday 12th is the next big challenge with high temperatures and strong winds forecast. 
We are also seeing on the news severe flooding in England at this time - what extremes!   Blessings to all affected.