Victorians are again urged to exercise caution as heatwave conditions continue across parts of the state, with elevated fire danger in the west and north west and firefighters still working on a grassfire in Goomalibee.
A Total Fire Ban (TFB) has been declared in the Mallee and Wimmera districts today, effective from 12:01 am to 11:59 pm, following Extreme Fire Danger Ratings.
Elsewhere in the state, hot conditions are expected, with High Fire Danger Ratings for Northern Country, North Central and North East districts.
Firefighters remain on the ground in Goomalibee, working to contain a 1587ha grassfire that originated from a header fire. Emergency Warnings were issued to the community yesterday afternoon, but have since been downgraded to Watch and Act and Advice messages, encouraging locals to stay near shelter and stay informed.
There were eight aircraft assisting ground crews in Goomalibee yesterday, and due to the great work of crews, they were able to successfully stop the spread of the fire before it could reach Broken River.
Unfortunately, one house and six sheds have been destroyed, with more impact assessments to come.
In the north west, a 2841ha grassfire in Charlton was contained overnight, with Forest Fire Management Victoria and CFA firefighters working strongly together to combat the fire edge. Sadly, one home was lost. The threat has now been reduced, but residents nearby are encouraged to stay vigilant.
With fires still active in the hot and dry landscape, anyone travelling through these areas or considering travelling should check local conditions before leaving.
A number of fires have been caused by agricultural activities over recent days, and farmers engaging in harvesting activities are urged to postpone paddock work today until conditions ease.
With heatwave conditions still in place, people should prepare 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:
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VicEmergency app, website (emergency.vic.gov.au) and social media channels
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Listen in to local emergency broadcasters such as ABC local radio, commercial and select community radio stations, or SkyNews TV
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Phone the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226.
Quotes attributable to State Response Controller, Alistair Drayton
“Due to the work of fire crews yesterday right across the state, we have been able to minimise the level of threat to our communities in fire affected areas, and we thank them for their cooperation in doing so.
“Yesterday we saw just how fast things can change in hot, dry and windy conditions when a fire caused by harvest operations near Goomalibee, west of Benalla, escalated quickly and triggered an Emergency Warning.
“Stay vigilant, understand how the increased fire danger and heatwave conditions will affect you today and make sure your fire plan is up to date.”
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Media contact: State Control Centre Media via 1300 287 289
