Victorians are facing an increased bushfire risk across much of the state after a warm and dry autumn, according to the Australian Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for winter, released today.
March and April saw the fourth highest temperatures on record, below average rainfall across much of Victoria and an extension of the Fire Danger Period in some parts of the state for the first time since 2019.
These conditions, coupled with existing underlying dryness, has led to a higher level of dried grass and vegetation. In grassland, halted pasture growth has led to grazed-out or bare conditions.
As a result, an above average bushfire risk is predicted for much of southwest Gippsland, extending into central, southwest and northwest Victoria, as well as parts of northeast Victoria this winter. The increased risk isn’t for long-running bushfires, but events caused by uncontrolled burn-offs and other activities.
Normal rainfall is expected this winter, and Victorians can expect normal fire potential across the rest of the state. However, fires are possible on dry and windy days in areas with dry or cured vegetation.
Even in winter, it’s vital for communities to remain vigilant, particularly if burning-off. Register your burn-off and monitor weather conditions. Have sufficient equipment and water to stop the fire spreading and never leave a burn-off unattended.
The emergency management sector is continuing its preparedness activities with statewide briefings and state-level exercising. Incident management personnel are doing all they can to prepare for emerging risks and respond to any emergencies.
The Seasonal Outlook for winter is developed by the Australian and New Zealand Fire and Emergency Services Council (AFAC) and supported by the Bureau of Meteorology, along with state and territory fire and land managers
It’s important for communities to understand their local risks. Keep up to date with the Fire Danger Ratings on the VicEmergency app and VicEmergency website.
Quotes attributable to Acting Emergency Management Commissioner Tim Wiebusch
“With warmer and drier conditions in large parts of the state leading into winter, it’s important to remain prepared for the potential of fires. If you are burning off, please remember to register via the Fire Permits Victoria website, check the weather and notify your neighbours.
“We may still see storms and other emergencies this winter, so it’s important to remain prepared for all emergencies.
“As part of your planning for emergencies, ensure you have enough supplies to last 72 hours. Download the VicEmergency app and never rely on one source of emergency information.”
Quotes attributable to Acting Country Fire Authority Chief Officer Garry Cook
“The lack of rainfall and dry vegetation across many parts of the state is a great concern for firefighters this time of the year and we’re asking people to remain vigilant and not become complacent just because we’re not in summer anymore.
"While cooler days are arriving, the landscape remains dry enough to allow fires to start and spread quickly if a burn-off gets out of control, especially when coupled with strong winds.
"The impact and damage of an escaped fire on local communities and emergency services can be devastating.”
Quotes attributable to Forest Fire Management Victoria Chief Fire Officer Chris Hardman
“There’s still a lot to enjoy in our forests and parks in winter, but what this outlook shows, Victorians still need to take care with any campfires.
“Even at this time of year, just one unattended or poorly managed campfire can cause serious damage to the environment and put lives and property at risk.
“Never leave a campfire unattended and use water to fully extinguish it – if it’s cool to touch it’s safe to leave.”
Quotes attributable to Fire Rescue Commissioner, Gavin Freeman
“With drier than normal conditions, there is still a risk of bush and grassfires. Remain alert to the conditions and be planned, prepared and informed”.
“The colder months can be some of the riskiest times of the year for fires, as winter approaches, we urge Victorians to remain vigilant both inside and outside the home.”
“No matter the season, having interconnected smoke alarms in all bedrooms, hallways and living areas can provide vital seconds to escape in case of a fire.”
Quotes attributable to Victorian State Emergency Services Acting Chief Officer Operations, Alistair Drayton
"While we currently experiencing this drier climate, we remind Victorians to not become complacent and encourage them to consider how they might ready their property, their neighbours, and their community for adverse conditions including storm and flooding. You can help by assembling an emergency kit, reaching out to your neighbour, and contributing to or joining your local VICSES unit."
“This season we’re also asking to know your local risk to flooding - you can do this by checking your Local Flood Guide. Additionally, please ensure you download the Vic Emergency app to stay up to date with emergency advice and messaging, and if you come across flood water on the road, never drive through it.”
MEDIA CONTACT:
Emergency Management Victoria via the State Control Centre: 1300 287 289 or sccvic.media@scc.vic.gov.au
