Victoria’s fire services are urging farmers to postpone harvesting activities due to the extreme fire risk in the west of the state today, while residents in the north east are encouraged to have a plan to keep cool.
A Total Fire Ban (TFB) is in place today for the Wimmera, following an Extreme Fire Danger Rating. No fire can be lit or allowed to stay alight in the open air until 11:59 pm tonight in the district.
A severe heatwave is currently impacting northern Victoria and a warning has been issued by the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) for Northern Country, North East, East Gippsland, West and South Gippsland and North Central forecast districts. This is valid until Saturday, but conditions are expected to peak today and tomorrow.
Across the state, there is a High Fire Danger Rating in place for the Mallee, Northern Country, North Central, Central, North East, East Gippsland and West and South Gippsland districts.
During today and tomorrow, temperatures in the north of the state are expected to reach low-40s, and mid-to-high-30s in other parts of the state.
Hot, dry and windy conditions can cause fires to spread quickly and be extremely dangerous, and can make it hard for firefighters to suppress a fire should it break out.
Severe heatwaves can be more dangerous for certain people, especially for those over 65, children, pregnant and breastfeeding women, people with medical conditions and those who are unwell.
Start preparing for the conditions early in the day by closing windows and blinds to prevent the heat entering your home. Drink plenty of water and watch for signs of dehydration or heat-related illness.
Victorians and visitors are reminded to never rely on one channel for emergency information. Connect to official sources of information, including the:
- VicEmergency app, website (emergency.vic.gov.au) and social media channels
- Listen 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.
Quotes attributable to State Response Controller, Michelle Cowling
“We have already seen several large agricultural fires involving crops and hay over recent weeks in the west and northwest and with strong gusty winds anticipated, ignition is a real possibility.
“We’re asking people to follow the strict conditions associated with the Total Fire Ban declaration.
“Understand how the increased fire risk will impact you and ensure your fire plan covers all possible contingencies.”
-ENDS-
Media contact:
State Control Centre Media via 1300 287 289
