Australia Faces Extreme Temperatures and Fire Risk in Victoria

Smouldering trees in Victoria, Australia Dec 24, 2024 Photo: EFE

December 24, 2024 Hour: 7:14 pm

Jason Heffernan, director of the county fire authority, highlighted concerns about the spread of the fire and the possibility of new fires arising due to the extreme risk expected on Thursday.

The Australian state of Victoria is on high alert for extreme weather conditions that could intensify forest fires.

In response to this critical situation, the authorities have announced a Total Fire Ban, which will come into force on December 26, with the aim of preventing further disasters and protecting the community.

This action is being taken in a context where a significant fire continues to advance in the Grampians National Park. This fire, which has not yet been contained, is threatened by high temperatures of around 40 degrees Celsius and strong winds reaching 70 to 80 kilometers per hour.

A state wide Total Fire Ban has been declared for Victoria on the 26th of Decemeber 2024. I urge all Victorians in fire risk areas to discuss their bushfire survival plan with their household and remember leaving early is the safest option. ℹ️Visit https://t.co/tQ9PwDGZ4N pic.twitter.com/hKXhMApJgR
— CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan (@CFAChiefOfficer) December 24, 2024

Jason Heffernan, director of the county fire authority, highlighted concerns about the spread of the fire and the possibility of new fires arising due to the extreme risk expected on Thursday.

From 12:01 AM to 11:59 PM (local time) on December 26, it will be prohibited to light or maintain open-air fires, a measure that seeks to safeguard both the population and the natural environment. Heffernan urged the community to enjoy the holiday season with caution, recalling that fire safety is a shared responsibility.

Evacuated residents from areas near the Grampians National Park have been allowed to temporarily return home to collect essential belongings and care for their animals. However, the situation remains critical, and authorities are keeping a constant watch.

The risk of fire is expected to decrease with the arrival of the rainy season between March and April, but for now, the community must remain alert and follow official recommendations to ensure their safety during this high-risk period.