In Victoria, bushfires have destroyed six homes, prompting authorities to issue a severe fire danger warning. The state’s emergency services minister, Jaclyn Symes, confirmed on Sunday that 228 assessments revealed the destruction of these homes.
Symes emphasized the support measures being planned for affected families and stressed that the focus is now on the extreme heat expected for Wednesday.
Forecasts predict temperatures exceeding 40°C in western Victoria, raising significant concerns among firefighters. Symes noted that indicators suggest extreme fire danger, with the Country Fire Association chief, Jason Heffernan, warning that Wednesday could be Victoria’s worst fire day in four years.
Forecasters predict 40°C+ temperatures on Wednesday, increasing the risk of catastrophic fire conditions.Heffernan has been coordinating with emergency management officials to prepare for potentially catastrophic conditions, especially in the Wimmera district.
Symes highlighted the combination of high temperatures and strong winds expected, which, coupled with recent drying in the region, could exacerbate fire risks.
The Bureau of Meteorology anticipates temperatures of up to 44°C in Mildura and high 30s in other areas, including 36°C in Melbourne, accompanied by gusty winds.
By Saturday night, a large fire west of Ballarat had burned over 16,000 hectares. As of Sunday, approximately 550 firefighters were on-site.
Warnings were issued for several towns, including Amphitheatre and Elmhurst, advising residents to evacuate and avoid returning.
Symes urged residents in fire-prone areas to finalize their fire plans and remain vigilant. Government officials plan to meet with the Bureau of Meteorology and fire agencies to assess the situation further and will provide updates as needed.