'Catastrophic' bushfires, flash-floods hit Australia

Authorities have ordered more than 10,000 people to flee from “catastrophic” wildfires in north-east Australia while heavy rainfall in the south-east has caused flooding leaving at least two people dead, according to news reports.

Queensland`s fire danger warning has been raised to "catastrophic" - the highest level - for the first time, according to a Nov. 28 BBC News report.

More than 130 bushfires are burning across Queensland, fuelled by strong winds, a heatwave and dry vegetation, it said.

Meanwhile, Sydney has been deluged by the heaviest November rain it has experienced in decades, causing flash-flooding, traffic chaos and power cuts, the BBC reported.

Heavy rain fell throughout Wednesday, Nov. 28, the city at one point receiving its average monthly rainfall in two hours.

Officials said dozens of vehicles crashed in the stormy conditions, with winds of up to 90km/h (55mph) also recorded.

At least two deaths have been blamed on the storm, the BBC noted.

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