A state of emergency has been declared in New South Wales as Australian firefighters battle bushfires that have already destroyed more than 200 homes. The announcement comes as conditions look set to deteriorate with soaring temperatures and strong winds expected to fan the flames in the coming days.

The Blue Mountains, west of Sydney, has been the worst-hit region with some fires still raging out of control. State officials say they are the most dangerous conditions in 40 years. New South Wales Premier Barry O'Farrell said the declaration would give emergency services additional powers over the next 30 days which could include cutting gas and power supplies if needed.

Continue reading the main story Analysis Jon Donnison BBC News, Sydney New South Wales's worst fires in more than a decade look to be far from over. After several cooler days giving firefighters some respite, hot weather has returned with temperatures expected to rise. The coming week will be difficult and dangerous. Hopes of rain seem to have vanished. Predicted high winds pose a particular threat allowing fires to jump containment lines. The state of emergency will allow authorities to force people to leave their homes if necessary.

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