Tasmania bushfires engulf homes

Bushfires in the Tasmanian town of Dunalley have destroyed up to 80 homes.

At least one person is feared dead.

Hundreds have now left the area as the fires continue to spread on the east of the Australian island state.

SOUNDBITE: UNIDENTIFIED RESIDENT SAYING (English):

"Quite a few people have actually evacuated. They evacuated yesterday afternoon but most that have stayed and fought have managed to save their properties."

Media reports say bushfires are threatening properties in several parts of Australia as temperatures rise and humidity falls.