Fires continue to rage across Queensland.
Authorities say this is the worst start to the state’s bushfire season in recorded history.
Here is a quick explainer on what you need to know.
WHERE ARE THE MAJOR FIRES ON MONDAY?
• On Monday evening, 73 fires were burning from the southeast corner to the Cairns hinterland, although that figure has fluctuated throughout the day.
• A major blaze around the Stanthorpe and Applethorpe areas has been contained but officials say containment lines and crews will be put to the test by dry winds.
• Residents in and around Ballandean, south of Stanthorpe, are being told to leave after a dangerous fire flared up there. An evacuation centre is open at the Ballandean Hall and Sports Club.
• Aircraft were grounded for periods on Monday because of strong winds, and residents have been told to immediately leave O’Reilly, another area within the rainforest.
• Another blaze near Binna Burra in the Gold Coast hinterland has also been brought under control, but again there are warnings it could flare up.
WHAT’S THE DAMAGE SO FAR?
• There have been no fatalities.
• 47 homes and properties have been either damaged or burnt down since the crisis began on Thursday.
• The Stanthorpe fire, which takes in the Applethorpe fire, has destroyed eight structures including three homes and water tanks.
• 11 homes were obliterated at Sarabah by the fire now at Binna Burra and the heritage-listed Binna Burra Lodge has been seriously damaged.
• Further north, one house was razed to the ground in a very fast grassfire near Mareeba on Thursday.
• The damage tally is likely to rise once it is safe to check fire-ravaged areas.
WHAT ARE RESIDENTS DOING?
• Many were forced to evacuate their homes with some going to shelters and others seeking refuge with friends or family.
• But some in the Stanthorpe, Applethorpe and Binna Burra areas are being allowed to return to their properties to get a look at the damage, check on their pets and access medication.
• Six schools will be closed on Tuesday as a cautionary measure.
• Many roads are closed and people are being urged to check emergency services bulletins before travelling into affected areas.
WHAT RESOURCES HAVE BEEN DEPLOYED?
• Fire crews from NSW and federal defence personnel are assisting Queensland agencies.
WHAT’S THE OUTLOOK?
• Conditions are volatile and not expected to ease before Wednesday, when temperatures and winds will drop.
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