After a drier-than average autumn and winter, Victoria’s far west and southwest are facing an increased fire risk leading into summer, according to the Australian Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for Spring, released today.
There is a high chance that the bushfire season will start early in these regions, which extends through the Wimmera, Grampians National Park and the Mallee. In these areas, a substantial increase in dead and dry plant material within forests will make it easier for fires to start and spread.
Across the state, Victorians can expect an average rainfall outlook, and a warmer than average spring, which is likely to lead to drier than normal conditions.
The fire risk potential for the remaining parts of the state is assessed to be normal, noting that there is a chance that the bushfire season may also begin earlier in areas dominated by drier forests, woodlands and grasslands.
Emergency services remain well prepared for emerging risks associated with the potential for an earlier start to the fire season and will continue to monitor conditions to identify key risk areas leading into the summer period.
The Outlook for Spring is developed by the Australasian Fire and Emergency Service Authorities Council (AFAC) and supported by the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) 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 Emergency Management Commissioner Rick Nugent
“It’s important to prepare now for the potential for fires by ensuring you understand your fire risk, and that you know what to do in case of an emergency.
“Create your fire plan and talk with your family about what you will do in case of a fire.
“Always have multiple sources of emergency information. Download the VicEmergency app and tune in to your local emergency broadcaster.”
Quotes attributable to Country Fire Authority Chief Officer Jason Heffernan
"Victorians can expect an earlier start to the fire season in the southwest and western areas due to a drier than average first half of the year.
“CFA crews across the state are prepared to protect their communities once again.
“Our brigades are continuously working very closely with their communities and our interagency partners to prepare for the high-risk weather season.
“Fire safety is a shared responsibility between fire services and Victorians, so we urge people to begin preparing their family and property for the upcoming fire season.”
Quotes attributable to Forest Fire Management Victoria Chief Fire Officer Chris Hardman
“Our crews work year-round to reduce bushfire risk to Victorians and the things they care about.
“Conditions this autumn and winter have been favourable for us to carry out works, including planned burns, to reduce bushfire risk. With the support of the community and in partnership with other agencies, we’ll continue this work through spring as it is safe and suitable to do so.
“All Victorians have a role to play to reduce bushfire risk. We encourage the community to act now to prepare for the bushfire season ahead.”
Quotes attributable to Fire Rescue Commissioner, Gavin Freeman
“This year’s bushfire season is expected to arrive early in some parts of Victoria, and a warmer than average spring is forecast statewide, so we need to start preparing now.
“Fire Rescue Victoria stands ready to support our colleagues across the emergency services sector this spring, particularly the CFA and Forest Fire Management Victoria.
“I urge anyone living or spending time in or near the bush and grasslands to monitor weather conditions and have a plan for high-risk days.
“Ensure your family is ready for an emergency - make or review your Bushfire Plan, prepare your property now and know which information channels work for you.
“Things can change quickly, so all Victorians and anyone visiting or travelling within our state should stay aware of weather conditions.”
Media contact:
Emergency Management Victoria via the State Control Centre: 1300 287 289 or sccvic.media@scc.vic.gov.au
