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Britons heading to Australia have been alerted of the risk of bushfires across the country over the festive period and for the upcoming summer.

From the end of 2019 to the beginning of 2020, Australia experienced devastating wildfires which destroyed over 3,000 buildings and saw 34 people die.

The Foreign, Commonwealth, Development Office (FCDO) warned Britons of the ongoing risks of bushfires across Australia.

It wrote: “Australian authorities have advised that there is an increased risk of bushfires for large areas of the country from now and throughout summer 2024/2025. Be aware of the risks and follow the advice of local states and territories on what you should do to prepare for and how to respond to any emergency.”

Many Britons will be jetting off to Australia to spend the summer there

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The FCDO added: “Bushfires can occur in any part of Australia, including areas close to towns and cities.

“Be aware of the risk of bushfires, especially at the height of the Australian summer from November to February. Bushfires can start and change direction and become a risk to life very suddenly.

“Australia regularly battles devastating bushfires. Previous fires resulted in the loss of lives and property with many residents and visitors advised to evacuate.

“Australian authorities have a range of online information and apps to help citizens and visitors keep track of weather and bushfire warnings.”

Britons have been advised to download weather and emergency information apps for Australian or State governments.

Bushfires can produce poor air quality which can lead to aggravated respiratory conditions. Smoke can gather from far away with fires and can impact urban and rural areas.

The FCDO have told people to follow the area, state or government advice as they monitor the air quality of the region.