Authorities say this is the worst start to the Queensland bushfire season in recorded history.

WHERE ARE THE MAJOR FIRES ON MONDAY?

* On Monday evening, 73 fires were burning from the southeast corner to the Cairns hinterland, although that figure has fluctuated throughout the day.

* A major blaze around the Stanthorpe and Applethorpe areas has been contained but officials say containment lines and crews will be put to the test by dry winds.

* Residents in and around Ballandean, south of Stanthorpe, are being told to leave after a dangerous fire flared up there. An evacuation centre is open at the Stanthorpe Fitness Centre.

* Aircraft were grounded for periods on Monday because of strong winds, and residents have been told to immediately leave O'Reilly, another area within the rainforest.

* Another blaze near Binna Burra in the Gold Coast hinterland has also been brought under control, but again there are warnings it could flare up.

WHAT'S THE DAMAGE SO FAR?

* There have been no fatalities.

* 47 homes and properties have been either damaged or burnt down since the crisis began on Thursday.

* The Stanthorpe fire, which takes in the Applethorpe fire, has destroyed eight structures including three homes and water tanks.

* 11 homes were obliterated at Sarabah by the fire now at Binna Burra and the heritage-listed Binna Burra Lodge has been seriously damaged.

* Further north, one house was razed to the ground in a very fast grassfire near Mareeba on Thursday.

* The damage tally is likely to rise once it is safe to check fire-ravaged areas.

WHAT ARE RESIDENTS DOING?

* Many were forced to evacuate their homes with some going to shelters and others seeking refuge with friends or family.

* But some in the Stanthorpe, Applethorpe and Binna Burra areas are being allowed to return to their properties to get a look at the damage, check on their pets and access medication.

* Six schools will be closed on Tuesday as a cautionary measure.

* Many roads are closed and people are being urged to check emergency services bulletins before travelling into affected areas.

WHAT RESOURCES HAVE BEEN DEPLOYED?

* Fire crews from NSW and federal defence personnel are assisting Queensland agencies.

WHAT'S THE OUTLOOK?

* Conditions are volatile and not expected to ease before Wednesday, when temperatures and winds will drop.

Australian Associated Press