Sydney-Sana
Australia's state of New South Wales, especially its capital Sydney, is facing the worst air pollution levels ever caused by smoke from fires in its forests, putting the city on the list of the 10 most polluted cities in the world.
A thick cloud of smog covered Sydney, Australia's most populous city, for the fourth day in a row, while the mayor of the town of Burke, northwest of the city, said the streets were deserted as residents tried to avoid open spaces as much as possible, industry officials said. Health 73 people have been treated for respiratory problems in the last week, twice as high as usual.
Air pollution in Bourke is 15 times higher than recommended safety levels as strong winds drive smoke and forest fires dust that has accumulated over three years of drought.
The fires in New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland have killed at least four people and destroyed more than 400 homes since they erupted earlier this month.