Fires Rage in Victoria as Cool Change Brings Relief to Melbourne

Fires Rage in Victoria as Cool Change Brings Relief to Melbourne

Fires Rage in Victoria as Cool Change Brings Relief to Melbourne

The extreme heatwave that gripped Victoria is finally easing in the south, bringing much-needed relief to Melbourne and surrounding areas. However, for residents near the Grampians and Little Desert National Park, the battle against raging bushfires is far from over. Authorities have issued urgent evacuation warnings as out-of-control fires continue to threaten homes, fueled by unpredictable winds and dry conditions.

In Melbourne, temperatures soared close to 40 degrees before a cool change swept through in the afternoon, bringing gusty southerly winds that dropped the mercury by nearly 10 degrees. While the city welcomed the relief, these strong winds complicated firefighting efforts in the western parts of the state. The Little Desert fire alone has already scorched more than 90,000 hectares, consuming nearly two-thirds of the national park. Emergency warnings remain in place for several towns, including Brimpaen, Cherrypool, Glenisla, and Rocklands, with residents urged to evacuate immediately.

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Luke Heagerty from the State Control Centre has emphasized that the fires are being driven by unpredictable and gusty winds, making containment efforts incredibly challenging. Fire crews are working tirelessly to manage the situation, with additional support arriving from other states to assist in battling the blazes. Meanwhile, a severe thunderstorm warning has been issued for parts of northern Victoria, adding another layer of concern. Authorities fear that lightning strikes could ignite new fires in already vulnerable areas.

Although Melbourne and Geelong are experiencing a welcome drop in temperature, northern Victoria remains under a low-intensity heatwave, with regions like Mildura still facing temperatures in the high 30s. The heat is expected to persist until at least Thursday, possibly extending into the weekend.

In the wake of these extreme conditions, emergency services have responded to over 1,100 calls for assistance due to building damage and fallen trees, with thousands of properties statewide still without electricity. Road closures in fire-affected areas have also disrupted daily life, with essential supplies like medications struggling to reach isolated communities.

Despite the challenges, there is some hope as the weather gradually shifts. Firefighters are using this window of cooler conditions to intensify their containment efforts before temperatures rise again. Premier Jacinta Allan has assured the public that financial and logistical support is being provided to affected communities, emphasizing that while the immediate danger persists, the government is committed to long-term recovery efforts.

For now, the focus remains on keeping communities safe, managing the fires, and preparing for any further challenges the unpredictable weather may bring. Residents in high-risk areas are urged to stay informed, follow evacuation orders, and prioritize their safety above all else.

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