Livia Albeck-Ripka, a reporter for The Times in Melbourne, dives into the catastrophic wildfires sweeping Australia, which have devastated landscapes and wildlife. She shares heart-wrenching stories, including that of Susan Pulis, who fled the flames with kangaroos and koalas. The discussion highlights the alarming connection between climate change and these disasters, and the public's frustration with Prime Minister Scott Morrison’s inaction during the crisis. The episode explores the heroic efforts to save both people and wildlife amidst a backdrop of political controversy.
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Ecosystem Devastation
Australia's unique ecosystem, with many endemic species, is highly vulnerable to the fires.
Half a billion animals are estimated to have perished, potentially wiping out entire species.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Susie's Rescue
Susan Pulis, an Australian wildlife rehabilitator, evacuated animals from her shelter during the fires.
She returned to find her property miraculously spared thanks to a friend and water bombers.
insights INSIGHT
Government Response and Criticism
Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison faced criticism for his delayed response to the fires and a vacation during the crisis.
Public anger stems from his perceived inaction and his stance on climate change and the coal industry.
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Wildfires are devastating Australia, incinerating an area roughly the size of West Virginia and killing 24 people and as many as half a billion animals. Today, we look at the human and environmental costs of the disaster, its connection to climate change and why so many Australians are frustrated by Prime Minister Scott Morrison’s response.
Guest: Livia Albeck-Ripka, a reporter for The Times in Melbourne a reporter for The Times in Melbourne who spoke with Susan Pulis, a woman who fled the fires with kangaroos and koalas in her car. For more information on today’s episode, visit nytimes.com/thedaily.
Many Australians entered the new year under apocalyptic blood-red skies as smoke from the fires choked the country’s southeastern coast. “I look outside and it’s like the end of the world. Armageddon is here,” one woman in Canberra said.
The fires have burned through dozens of towns, destroying at least 3,000 homes. Now, unbridled by continuous fire fighting, the blazes have returned to some scorched areas to level what is left.
Rupert Murdoch controls the largest news company in Australia, and his newspapers have contributed to a wave of misinformation about the cause of the fires.
The Daily 