14.7 million acres. so far.
that’s how much of australia has burned away. 1/3 of the entire koala population is gone. and that’s just so far. SO FAR!
i’m only gonna do this once because it’s not what this blog is about and you might be here for a golden globes recap- but i feel very strongly and deep in my gut that these fires in australia are going to get worse before they get better. well, i mean the science is also telling me that but that’s not the point. the point is this: if you haven’t done anything you absolutely have to. 1 dollar helps. 500 is amazing. do what you can obviously, but remember that these fires are going to last through february and beyond more than likely. see the thing is there is always a bush fire in australia. like it’s totally normal. at least during the summer. which is now. the issue is that they are experiencing record breaking temps combined with a national drought and when you mix in high winds….well i’m no expert but that sounds like a recipe for disaster.
the reality is (and this is for all of us everywhere) climate change has worsened the scope of natural disasters like fires and floods. so, this isn’t because australia is dry and hot and fires are normal there. it’s because australia is dry and hot and fires are normal there but rain is also normal and it’s usually what keeps the fires under control. and thanks to global warming temps are rising everywhere and rain is scarce.
the reality is, bushfire conditions are now more dangerous than in the past, and the risk to people and property has increased. it is also becoming more dangerous to fight bushfires in australia.
the air from these fires is so toxic at times it is equivalent to smoking 3 packs of cigarettes a day.
and don’t get me started on the animals. it’s all i can do to not scream.
so before i get TOO intense let me just share all the ways you can help.
and if you’re like me and can only donate a small amount of money just get the word out. at every level.
and not just about this disaster. but about the bigger picture. because OH THERE IS ONE.
for one thing we have to vote. we have to vote for the people who support climate science and listen to SCIENTISTS on what global warming is and is doing to our planet. stop voting for cunts who make fun of little girls.
are you one of the people convinced there’s no such thing as global warming? or do you just want to understand it better? here is an excellent article from national geographic on the causes of global warming (hint hint: it’s you and the greenhouse gases you are emitting).
so right this minute do your part to help those that are in dire need of help:
donate to the australian red cross for help with relief and recovery.
to the australian salvation army who are helping provide meals and shelter for evacuees and front line responders.
st. vincent de paul society australia is using their donations to help families rebuild and cover bills.
and the new south wales fire service is collecting for families that have lost members.
wires australian wildlife rescue is helping all the animals.
also this verified gofundme koala hospital in port macquarie and this one in currumbin.
once you’ve donated come back and watch this.