Saudi embassy in Australia issues warning due to bushfires
The Saudi Embassy in Australia has issued an urgent appeal to all Saudi citizens present in Australian territory, stressing the need to exercise extreme caution and fully comply with the instructions issued by the local authorities, following the declaration of a "state of disaster" in the state of Victoria as a result of the dangerous escalation of bushfires.
Diplomatic action and urgent directives
The embassy confirmed via its official Twitter account that it is continuously monitoring developments in the affected areas. It emphasized the importance of following official updates on the state's emergency website and urged citizens not to hesitate to seek assistance when needed.
In order to ensure the safety of Saudi nationals, the embassy published contact numbers dedicated to emergency cases, which operate around the clock to provide the necessary support:
- Embassy emergency number in Australia: +61432257277
- Unified number for Saudis abroad: +966920011114
Background to the event: State of disaster in Victoria
This diplomatic warning coincides with Australian authorities officially declaring a state of disaster in the southeast of the country, specifically in the state of Victoria. This extraordinary measure came after wildfires consumed vast areas of forests and rural regions, fueled by a severe heatwave with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius, accompanied by hot winds that exacerbated the flames and made them difficult for firefighters to control.
The "state of disaster," declared by Victorian Premier Jacinta Allen, grants broad and exceptional powers to the relevant authorities, including the ability to enforce mandatory evacuations in threatened areas and to directly direct government resources to address the crisis. Allen stated unequivocally: "The aim is to protect the lives of Victorians... This sends a clear message: if you are told to leave, leave immediately.".
Environmental impact and fears of a repeat of the "Black Summer"
These fires are reminiscent of the tragic "Black Summer" that struck Australia in late 2019 and early 2020, causing immense environmental devastation and significant loss of life and property. Experts fear that current weather conditions could lead to similar scenarios if the situation is not contained quickly, especially given reports that some fires could continue to burn for days or even weeks.
On the ground, Tim Wibush, Victoria's emergency manager, revealed the initial extent of the damage, noting that at least 130 structures, ranging from homes and cottages to other buildings, had been destroyed. Despite the grim situation, rescue teams managed to locate three people, including a child, who had been reported missing in one of the state's most intense fires, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the ongoing firefighting efforts.
