Prolonged heatwave conditions set to begin over the weekend will pose challenges for both the Victorian community and the fire crews currently battling the fires in the western part of the state.
Three bushfires continue to burn in the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park, with firefighters today using aircraft and back burning as a key part of the containment strategy, to help protect surrounding communities and environment from the impacts of these fires.
The threat of the bushfire in the Little Desert National Park has reduced and crews have made significant progress towards containment ahead of the weekend.
With much of the state expected to reach the high 30s and low 40s over the next few days, Victorians are reminded to protect themselves and others during days of extreme heat.
Thunderstorms and dry lightning are a concern on the weekend, which may lead to new fire starts on days of elevated fire risk and increased activity at the ongoing fires currently in the landscape.
Stay hydrated, check in with family, friends, neighbours and people most at risk and plan activities for the coolest part of the day.
Many people will head to our waterways to cool off during this period. It’s important to stay safe when in and around water - be aware of conditions, read safety signs and prepare by refreshing your water safety skills, including personal survival techniques and water safety knowledge.
Download the Beachsafe app or visit beachsafe.org.au to check beach conditions to find a safe place to swim.
Victorians living in high-risk bushfire areas should finalise their bushfire survival plan with their families ahead of the weekend and be prepared to act.
Victorians are reminded to never rely on one channel for emergency information. Connect to official sources of emergency information, including
- VicEmergency app
- www.emergency.vic.gov.au
- Tune in to local emergency broadcasters such as ABC local radio, commercial and select community radio stations, or SkyNews TV
- Phone the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226
- Follow VicEmergency on Facebook and X
Quotes attributable to Emergency Management Commissioner, Rick Nugent
"Starting tomorrow, we will see a severe heatwave for most of Victoria, and I would like to remind our community to stay informed through the VicEmergency App. Start to prepare now, know where to go to escape the heat, and have a plan to check in with friends and family.
"I would also like to acknowledge all our firefighters and incident management personnel who have been working round the clock, and are making strong progress on the current fires in the Grampians and Little Desert."
Quotes attributable to CFA Chief Officer, Jason Heffernan
“With multiple significant fires already burning in the Grampians and Little Desert, this stretch of hot and dry weather could make conditions even more challenging for firefighters.
“We need all Victorians, particularly those in high-risk areas, to act now and review your bushfire survival plans. Don’t wait until it’s too late.”
Quotes attributable to Forest Fire Management Victoria Chief Fire Officer, Chris Hardman
"The current fires in the Grampians are located in very remote, steep and difficult country, so our crews have been working tirelessly on the ground to create containment lines to protect the surrounding communities.
“When back burning in dry, windy conditions, there are risks of the ignitions spreading quickly, however Country Fire Authority and Forest Fire Management Victoria crews are well resourced to respond on the ground and with aircraft to ensure they do not reach private property."
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Media contact:
State Control Centre Media via 1300 287 289
