Authorities issue emergency warnings and evacuation orders as fires rage near Ballarat, with over 30,000 residents urged to leave
Victoria is grappling with catastrophic bushfire conditions, as strong winds and temperatures exceeding 40°C exacerbate the fire danger across the state’s west. Emergency services have issued urgent warnings for residents to evacuate, particularly in areas near Ballarat, where a significant bushfire continues to pose a severe threat.
Authorities have been on high alert, with the Victorian State Control Centre emphasizing that the situation remains critical. An emergency warning was issued for a grass fire in Kleins Road, Dereel, prompting immediate evacuation orders for Corindhap, Dereel, Enfield, Mount Mercer, and Rokewood. Residents in Beaufort, Brewster, Ercildoune, Glenbrae, Langi Kal Kal, Trawalla, and Waterloo were also advised to leave due to an active bushfire at Bayindeen-Rocky-Road, which remains uncontrolled.
The combination of strong westerly winds and high temperatures has made firefighting efforts challenging. Luke Hegarty, a spokesperson for the Victorian State Control Centre, highlighted the unpredictability of the conditions, noting that the cloud cover lifting and winds picking up could lead to rapidly changing situations.
The Bureau of Meteorology reported extreme temperatures, with Walpeup reaching 43.5°C and Hopetoun hitting 42.6°C. These conditions have led to extreme fire danger ratings across half the state, with catastrophic conditions forecasted in the Wimmera region.
Jason Heffernan, the Country Fire Authority’s (CFA) chief officer, urged those remaining in high-risk areas to reconsider defending their homes, emphasizing the importance of early evacuation. A cool change expected later in the evening brings the potential for wind gusts up to 80km/h and dry lightning, which could further complicate firefighting efforts.
The Bayindeen bushfire, which has consumed approximately 22,000 hectares and destroyed six homes, has been contained. However, firefighters remain vigilant as windy conditions could lead to the fire breaching containment lines. More than 30,000 Victorians have been urged to evacuate, with additional support from New South Wales firefighters and over 60 aircraft deployed to assist in the efforts.
This situation serves as a stark reminder of the relentless threat of bushfires in Australia, particularly during periods of extreme weather. Residents are urged to follow emergency advice, evacuate early, and stay informed through official channels
