[naturalman1975]

The whole thing is very long - but well worth reading for anybody who wants to try and understand this tragedy.

[Badeye]

I can only think of one word to describe what I just read here.

Dresden.

My God...

[ArmstedFragg]

Beautifully written. Essentially what it is, though, is a very accurate description of what a firestorm is like. The comment about moving balls of fire is dead accurate. We had a strike team go into similar conditions here in Escondido in ‘07. They had five engines, full protective gear, hydrant water, the whole nine yards. They saw the fire approaching, confidently moved into position to save the neighborhood, and ten minutes later were running for it. It’s an amazing example of the power of nature, difficult to describe well to those who haven’t been in one, but that story’s a chilling one for those of us who have. You’re just utterly helpless.

[ConservativeMind]

Nothing in the article about enviro-wackos not allowing the clearing of brush throughout the area.

[Charlespg]

I know this seems like a dammed fool question but have they ever considered fire bunkers or building underground ?

A earth and concrete house or barn with heavy fireproof shields that could be closed over the doors and windows might be able to withstand the bushfire