TERRIFIC HEAT

Evening Star, Issue 21667, 12 March 1934, Page 9

TERRIFIC HEAT

AUSTRALIAN STATES SUFFER I DESTRUCTIVE BUSH FIRES ProM Ast LciatK't:—By Telegraph—Copyiiih SYDNEY, March 12. (Received March 12, at, 9.50 a.m.) The city sweltered yesterday in heal that rose to 90.5 degrees, and was never below 80 degrees, with oppressive humidity. It was estimated that 250,000 people visited the beaches in an endeavour to got cool. Adelaide reports the worst day for sixty-four years. The maximum shade temperature was 107.8 on Saturday and 103.8 on Sunday, making the fifth successive day with the temperature over 100 degrees. Several homes were destroyed by bush fires, which, however, were diverted from tho town of Mount Barker. HOMES DESTROYED IN VICTORIA MELBOURNE, March 12. (Received March 12, at 11 a.m.) Bush fires in .various parts of the State continue to destroy homes and much other property. The magazine at the Wonthaggi colliery was threatened late yesterday, but it was saved after valiant efforts. A change of wind averted tho flames from the foothills, where there are many farmsteads. SOUTH AUSTRALIAN OUTBREAKS ADELAIDE, March 10. Busli fires started afresh near Bridgewater, and three houses were burned despite the frantic efforts of fifty men. Several homesteads on the border ot the town were also endangered till a change of wind saved tho position.