Australia battles wildfires

Firefighters battle flames in Australia, where massive wildfires continue to burn.

Hundreds of people have been forced from their homes in the southeast, as fires rage in five of Australia's six states.

They're being fuelled by powerful winds and a searing heatwave that's seen temperatures soar to more than 45 degrees Celsius (113 Fahrenheit).

On Tuesday (January 8), Prime Minister Julia Gillard warned residents to prepare.

SOUNDBITE: AUSTRALIAN PRIME MINISTER JULIA GILLARD SAYING (English):

"It is very important that people keep themselves safe. That they listen to local authorities and local warnings. This is a very dangerous day."

Firefighters hope conditions may ease in some areas as cooler weather sweeps up the east coast.

But respite may only last a few days, before the heatwave returns.

Next Monday (January 13) in central Australia, officials are forecasting temperatures of 54 degrees (129 Fahrenheit).