Several people are missing and feared dead in the Australian island state of Tasmania, as wildfires continue to blaze in the region.

Thousands have been forced to flee their homes - as blistering heat and high winds have even caused some trees to explode.

Over 100 homes have been completely destroyed in the fires and now police are searching for people who are still missing.

Tasmanian acting Police Commissioner is Scott Tilyard:

You can watch some extraordinary footage of the fires below: