World's tallest tower lights up for fire-stricken Australia

• The bushfires have consumed about 10 million hectares (100,000 square kilometres), leaving at least 28 people dead.
• Up to a billion animals may have died in the fires, which may drive some species closer to extinction, environmental groups say.
• Australia experienced its driest and hottest year on record in 2019.

DUBAI: The world's tallest tower, Burj Khalifa in Dubai, lit up Wednesday night in solidarity with Australia where devastating fires are still burning.

The bushfires have consumed about 10 million hectares (100,000 square kilometres), leaving at least 28 people dead and destroying more than 2,000 homes since September.

The skyscraper, which is 828 metres (2,717 feet) high, lit up with the statement "We can all help" and the hashtag MatesHelpMates to show support for Australia.

The Emirates Red Crescent is fundraising to support Australia's emergency response.

The fires have dominated headlines globally, prompting an outpouring of aid for victims.

Up to a billion animals may have died in the fires, which may drive some species closer to extinction, environmental groups say.

Last week, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison thanked the oil-rich United Arab Emirates for its "condolences and offers of support".

Australia experienced its driest and hottest year on record in 2019, with its highest average maximum temperature of 41.9 degrees Celsius (107.4 degrees Fahrenheit) recorded in mid-December.