Fire and weather conditions occurring today will make bushfires burning near Longwood and at Mount Lawson extremely dangerous for people who live, work or are holidaying in these areas.
Today’s fire danger is the worst across Victoria since Black Summer in 2019-20. Catastrophic and Extreme Fire conditions have been forecast across the state.
Two maps showing potential impact areas were distributed yesterday and again this morning. The Longwood fire is incredibly dynamic, with the fire spreading in multiple directions. The potential impact area for this fire has since increased.
People under the new areas of impact for the Longwood fire should first check VicEmergency for current warnings. If you are not under an Emergency Warning - Take Shelter Now warning, you must activate your bushfire survival plan and leave immediately ahead of imminent worsening conditions.
Leaving early is always the safest option to protect your life. Check warnings regularly as the situation changes.
Communities that could now be impacted by fire front or embers from the Longwood fire between now and 11pm tonight include: Whiteheads Creek, Avenel, Locksley, Creighton, Strathbogie, Tallangallook, Bonnie Doon, Lake Eildon, Thornton, Limestone, Yea, Alexandra and surrounds.
These maps represent the potential spread of fire in a worst-case scenario.
The Mount Lawson fire continues to burn and people should check the previous update for areas that may be impacted.
When leaving, be sure to let your family and friends know where you are going or use Register.Find.Reunite to ensure that emergency services know you’re safe.
Avoid any travel through bushland areas where possible.
It is vital to take action to protect your life. Your life may depend on the decisions you make.
Fire safety is a shared responsibility. 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
- Call the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226
- Follow VicEmergency on Facebook and X
-ENDS-
Media contact:
State Control Centre Media via 1300 287 299
