Wildfires engulf Australian city of Sydney

Wildfires engulfed the Australian city of Sydney yesterday, in a thick haze. In some places, it was 11 times worse than the level considered hazardous and was apt to trigger fire alarms. The city cancelled ferries and some offices in the downtown area were evacuated.

Local health officials advised people to stay indoors as much as possible and those with heart and



lung problems were told to avoid all outdoor activity.

The regional environmental department said the air quality index, or AQI, in some parts of Sydney was more than 11 times the 200 reading considered hazardous. Forecasts showed the wind would likely clear the air somewhat but also will fan the brush fires.