Melbourne: Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has issued a stark warning about the "extreme and dangerous" weather conditions currently gripping the country, as a severe bushfire crisis unfolds in Victoria, resulting in widespread destruction of homes and vast areas of woodland.

According to Thai News Agency, three individuals remain missing in Victoria, where over 50 bushfires continue to burn uncontrollably, with many classified at the highest danger level. The situation is described as the worst since the "Black Summer" wildfires of 2019-2020, which devastated an area equivalent to the size of Turkey and claimed 33 lives.

In a televised address, Prime Minister Albanese emphasized the dire conditions faced by Australians nationwide, particularly in Victoria, where bushfires are raging amid a heatwave and strong winds. He expressed his solidarity with affected communities during this challenging period.

The Prime Minister also announced the declaration of a state of disaster in 18 areas of Victoria and has requested assistance from the Australian Defence Force to provide accommodation for firefighters battling the blazes.

Officials reported that the largest bushfire, located near Longwood, approximately 112 kilometers north of Melbourne, has consumed more than 86,486 acres of woodland, destroying numerous homes, community centers, and telephone stations. Evacuations have been carried out in dozens of nearby communities, and several parks and campgrounds in the state have been closed.