Thousands of residents across 28 communities in Victoria have been ordered to evacuate as a massive fire threatens their safety.
The blaze, which began in bushland along Bayindeen-Rocky Road, has rapidly spread, prompting emergency warnings for areas west of Ballarat due to anticipated wind changes on Thursday evening.
Firefighters, numbering around 1,000, are working tirelessly to control the fire. Jason Heffernan, chief officer of the Victorian Country Fire Authority, indicated that conditions would worsen before improving, with no property damage reported yet. The Western Highway is closed between Ballarat and Ararat, with detours in place.
Residents are advised to move east towards Ballarat, where relief centers are set up in Wendouree and Ararat.
Relief centers open in Ballarat and Ararat as fire forces widespread evacuations.Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan highlighted the evolving nature of the fire and urged residents to stay updated with emergency alerts. The fire’s rapid spread, fueled by hot winds and thunderstorms, has led to a significant response, including 24 aircraft and 100 vehicles.
V/Line services and several bus routes have been suspended, though schools are expected to remain open.
Emergency Minister Jaclyn Symes reported that Langi Kal Kal Prison has activated its emergency plan, relocating inmates with health issues exacerbated by smoke. Power outages have affected over 2,700 customers, and evacuees from Beaufort and the local hospital have been moved to Ballarat.
With temperatures soaring above 40°C and severe storms predicted to bring strong winds and dry lightning, the situation remains critical.
Extreme fire warnings are also in place across South Australia, Tasmania, and Western Australia, where blazes have been ongoing since early summer.
Recent fires in the Grampians National Park have devastated properties and farmland. The Bureau of Meteorology forecasts severe storms with hail and damaging winds for southeastern New South Wales.