Chris Hemsworth Says He Will Donate $1 Million to Australian Wildfire Relief

Chris Hemsworth Donates $1M for Wildfire Relief
Chris Hemsworth Donates $1M for Wildfire Relief

Last night, Australian actor Chris Hemsworth, who lives in Byron Bay in New South Wales, announced that he would be contributing $1 million to relief efforts for the fires that have devastated the southeastern regions of Australia. Beginning in September and due to record-breaking temperatures and months of draught, a series of historically destructive bushfires emerged and continue now.

Since then, the fires have destroyed over 15.6 million acres of brush, an area the size of West Virginia. Twenty-four people have died and 1,300 homes have been destroyed in the NSW alone. Bushfires spread roughly twice as fast as an average person can run.

In a video on his social media accounts, Hemsworth asked followers for support. He also set up a page for donations , with links to various nonprofits and international organizations providing aid to the country.

"Hey guys, as youre well aware, the bush fires in Australia have caused massive devastation. They continue to burn; theres warmer weather on its way. Were really still in the thick of it here, as theres plenty of challenging times ahead and still to come. So what we need is your support and your donations. Im going to put forward $1 million and was hoping that all of you could contribute in any way, shape or form. Every dollar counts. That money goes directly to the firefighters, the people on the front lines, the people who have suffered, the communities that have taken a hit and who are in desperate need of our support. I want to say a huge thank you to everyone whos sent all their well wishes and donations already. Its greatly appreciated in Australia. But dig deep, and lots of love and well keep pushing forward. Cheers!"

Bushfires erupt across Australia each year. The current season, however, has been particularly destructive and the fire have intensified over the last week. In December, Australia recorded its highest temperature ever at 107 F.

While recent rains have quelled some of the fires, officials are warning that huge blazes will take off again.

Other celebrates have also made donations, including the singer Pink and actress Nicole Kidman, who both pledged $500,000 .

Heres praying the God of Thunders aid might summon more rain.