Australian authorities urge evacuations in rural communities as bushfire rages

Australian authorities have ordered residents of over two dozen rural communities to evacuate as an out-of-control bushfire tears through Grampians National Park, 240 km west of Melbourne.

The fire, burning for over a week, has scorched 55,000 hectares but caused no deaths or home losses. About 600 firefighters are battling the blaze, with shifting winds and hot conditions complicating efforts.

Residents in some areas were told to shelter indoors, while a statewide fire ban remains in effect. Authorities warn of worsening conditions as winds intensify.