Incredible footage shows just how quickly Australia's bush fires are spreading as flames 'crown' treetops

By now most people are aware that Australia is in the midst of a heatwave that could have potentially devastating consequences.

The country’s heatwave has seen record temperatures being recorded, with the national average temperature reaching a high of 40.9C (105.6F).

The Bureau of Meteorology (Bom) said "extensive" heat on Tuesday exceeded the previous record of 40.3C set on 7 January 2013.

The record comes as the nation battles a drought and bushfire crisis. The fires are spreading rapidly, with shocking footage making its way across the world via social media.

The moment a bushfire spread across a tree canopy, which is known as "crowning", has been filmed by Australian firefighters.

Crowning is one of the ways that forest fires can spread, with flames spreading huge distances in seconds.

This shocking footage, captured by firefighters from New South Wales' station 79 Ingleburn, was uploaded on social media to inform people that it’s never been more vital to listen to the advice of those fighting the fires.

Stay safe, Aussies.

More: The Australian weather forecast that should terrify the world