Record-breaking temperatures have sparked wildfires in the Australian island state of Tasmania. These blazes have ravaged the small township of Dunalley, near the capital city, Hobart. Although no deaths have been reported, police continue to search for a number of missing people. Jehovah’s Witnesses report that the home of one Witness was destroyed. Many Witnesses who fled their homes found safety in the homes of their fellow believers. The branch office of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Sydney is coordinating relief efforts to care for the spiritual and physical needs of victims.

Media Contacts:

International: J. R. Brown, Office of Public Information, tel. +1 718 560 5000

Australia: Donald MacLean, tel. +61 2 9829 5600