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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
World
Rebecca Speare-Cole

Terrifying moment firefighters' truck is overrun by Australian bushfire

Firefighters in Australia have shared the terrifying moment their truck was overrun by the bushfire that continues to ravage the country.

In the minute-long clip, the crew from the fire and rescue station in Wyoming are seen making their way through the bushfire burning South of Nowra.

Tall flames and sparks hit the side of their vehicle as they tried to make it to safety.

However, they were forced to shelter in their truck as the fire front passed through, with the crew holding up blankets against the windows.

Fire and Rescue New South Wales confirmed the crew are now safe.

Thousands of people have also fled to beaches as blazes threw embers towards homes and the sky glowed blood-red.

Thousands of people have also fled to beaches as blazes threw embers towards homes and the sky glowed blood-red (AFP via Getty Images)

Some 4,000 people were forced to take shelter on the beach in the holiday town of Mallacoota, in the state of Victoria.

Further north in New South Wales, a father and son died in the early hours of Tuesday defending their home in Cobargo.

A father and son died in the early hours of Tuesday defending their home in Cobargo (Getty Images)

There are now 12 deaths linked to the crisis.

It also comes as New Year's Eve firework displays kicked off in Sydney amid criticism that the events should not go ahead in solidarity with fire-ravaged communities.

British fire crews have offered their thoughts to those affected by the fires.

London Fire Brigade tweeted: "Our thoughts are with all those affected by the #AustralianFires and with the incredible firefighters who are tackling the numerous blazes."

West Midlands Fire Service added: "Our thoughts are with all those affected by these devastating fires. Especially our fire service colleagues there who are working tirelessly under extremely difficult conditions. #AustralianFires."

The London Ambulance Service said it was "in awe of the amazing heroes from our emergency services family in Australia".

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