FREDRICKA WHITFIELD, CNN ANCHOR: Forest fires in Australia have destroyed a total of 50 homes in the Sydney area, while firefighters battle the blaze. By today, the temperatures and winds have moderated somewhat. We get more from reporter Phil Black of Channel 7, Australia.</s>PHIL BLACK, CHANNEL 7 CORRESPONDENT (voice over): After burning along the valley near Shipley for several days, embers from these fires suddenly spotted ahead and found new life. Fanned by strong northwesterly winds, the blaze moved on one of the blue mountain's best-known landmarks, the Hydro Majestic Hotel. As flames crept along the sheer cliff face in front of the hotel, five extra water bombers, including fixed-wing planes and the air crane, scramble to protect it. One of the hotel sheds is believed to have caught alight, but it was saved. It all happened very quickly. The only road through the Great Western Highway was shot in both directions at 3:30. A backup team of 15 rural fire service crews didn't leave Penroth for another half hour. Houses at Midlow Bath (ph) are also under threat, and there are unconfirmed reports one has been lost. The fire brigade said some crews ran out of water not long after the blaze first flared. One firefighter suffered burns, but refused to be taken to a hospital, insisting he rejoin his colleagues. Phil Black, 7 News.
Forest Fires in Australia Destroy 50 Homes Around Sydney