7 comments | With Australia in an El Niño weather pattern, we can expect an increased risk of bushfires. To help prepare your home and family, watch these simple tips. | QBE Insurance Australia | Facebook

Bureau of Meteorology has declared Australia is in El Niño, which means an increased risk of bushfires. While research shows 74% of Aussies are concerned about a hotter, drier summer through El Niño, only 6% have a bushfire evacuation plan in place. To help safeguard your household, see our top tips: https://qbe.co/48uvQfI | QBE Insurance Australia

BUSHFIRES: There's a bushfire emergency north of Sydney tonight, with homes under threat and the busy pacific highway cut off by flames. #9News | http://9News.com.au | 9 News Sydney

125K views · 2.7K reactions | "You can smell the smoke, you can taste it and you can feel it." Sydney is 'choking' on thick smoke from Australia's bushfires. bbc.in/36fw35E | BBC News | Facebook

Wild weather has resulted in devastation throughout New South Wales. Damaging winds and large hailstones have destroyed Sydney suburbs, whilst residents in regional areas of the state are battling bushfires. #9News | 9 News Sydney