A CHANGING SKY ....

.... but certainly not everywhere!

For the last day of this "decade" and a pending "New Year" normally it would be times for a "Celebration", but not this one in my opinion!

Whilst the fires which have caused loads of issues have behaved thanks to the efforts of the "firies", unfortunately the massive temperatures and winds have whipped up major fires down South in Victoria's Gippsland area, where four people are still missing. The sky was black at 9am in the morning from the conditions. Dozens of homes lost.
The fires have progressed into the coastal areas along New South Wales South coast. 
This coastal area is one of many pristine beaches and popular holiday areas. BUT, there are large National Parks backing onto many of these, and these are presently causing real issues. Residents and holiday seekers alike are having to flee to the beach areas as there are normally only one road in and out of most of the villages along the coast. 
A recipe for disaster, and that has happened yesterday and today with many homes lost and sadly people killed. The most devastating  a young 28 year old "fire fighter" just married 18 months back and his wife expecting their first child.... the circumstances of his death amazing, caused by a freak fire tornado, having the power to lift his large fire truck and tipping it over.   

The major towns of Batemans Bay, and now Nowra are under siege, the only chance of improvement is a change coming through from the South. 
Overall, some 100 fires burning many at "extreme"....

Surprisingly, my Blip showing late this arvo a sky we have not seen here for awhile, mainly the clouds and a clear sky - hopefully a good sign. The extra our shade temp at 4pm. Penrith reached 46.3 deg C.

Not sure how the renowned Sydney Harbour New Year fireworks can be enjoyed by the crowds, as much discussion has seen them okayed by the Fire Services, and officials. 

Surely tomorrow can bring a better story!! 

... oh and why not pop by and welcome a new Blipper to the "family" he is one of our Blackheath Photo Group members, check his first out here in particular his extra