UPDATE: Bushfires in Victoria, Australia

The state of Victoria in southern Australia has recently been hit with hundreds of bush fires during a record-breaking heatwave - temperatures well above 38°C (100°F). Unfortunately, these fires have proved to be the deadliest in Australian history, with at least 166 deaths reported so far. The fires mostly appear to have been started by lightning - however a few appear to have been arson, and are under investigation - entire towns being declared crime scenes. Twenty-four fires are still burning, and authorities warn that the death toll will likely rise. (36 photos total) . LINK

I found this link for help in the comments area of the story.
Contributions can be made through the Australian Red Cross:
http://www.redcross.org.au/vic/services_emergencyservices_victorian-bushfires-appeal-2009.htm