New South Wales and Queensland are facing "catastrophic" conditions as bushfires rage across Australia.

The fires have already claimed three lives and destroyed more than 150 homes. Volunteer firefighter blames environmentalists for catastrophic fires in Australia .Australia bushfires: Maps reveal extent of blazes as Sydney braces for 'catastrophe'.Residents of Sydney's North Shore have been told it's too late to leave and they should seek shelter as the fire approaches. An estimated 31,500 North Shore properties are under threat from the bushfires.

Three people have died and over 150 homes destroyed. A state of emergency has been declared in New South Wales. The NSW Rural Fire Service has issued 14 emergency warnings for bushfires. Areas around Sydney, Wollongong and Newcastle face "catastrophic" fire conditions. New Zealand firefighters have been sent to help contain the fires. Gusty southerly winds are expected to spread the fires further.

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