In pictures: Australian fires

Firemen are battling wildfires in south-eastern Australia that have killed at least 84 people. The area is experiencing one of its worst heatwaves in decades.

Tens of thousands of firefighters, including many volunteers, are battling the blazes. Officials say the fires are some of the worst on record.

Aircraft, such as this helicopter, are "water bombing" fires that are burning out of control in some areas.

Witnesses say fires have been up to four storeys high, fanned by high winds. The fires have engulfed houses and cars attempting to escape.

The fires have devastated several communities north of Melbourne, including the town of Heathcote Junction.

Temperatures are dropping, but emergency services say without rain the fire risk remains high.

One survivor said the aftermath looked as if a "nuclear bomb" had gone off. The fires have destroyed hundreds of homes and farms.

Firefighters fear more bodies will be found as rescue services explore areas ravaged by fire.

Police suspect that in at least one case arsonists have relit fires put out by firefighters.

This image provided by Nasa shows smoke spreading south from a fire (outlined in red) in a forested area in Victoria state. Other fires are burning in New South Wales and South Australia.