Australian bushfires leave one dead, 193 homes destroyed

, Oct 19: Over 80 bushfires were still burning across the Australian state of New South Wales (NSW) on Saturday, leaving one dead and 193 homes destroyed, Xinhua reported.

The fires reportedly claimed one life as of Friday. The 63-year-old died, while defending his home against the fires. He died of a suspected heart attack.

The severe bushfires occurred on Thursday afternoon and burnt over 30,000 hectares so far, according to the Rural Fire Service (RFS).

Thousands of firefighters were still battling against six major bushfires in the state as they confirm 193 homes have been destroyed and another 109 homes damaged.

Rob Rogers, RFS deputy commissioner, said high temperatures and strong winds are set to return this weekend, making it harder for firefighters to put off the fires.

NSW Premier Barry O'Farrell has warned that it will take days to extinguish all the fires.

IANS