Melbourne on Edge as Otways Bushfire Grows Amid Record-Breaking Heat
Smoke is hanging over Melbourne and large parts of Victoria tonight as firefighters battle an out-of-control bushfire in the Otways, with the state bracing for what could be its hottest day on record. This is a fast-moving and deeply concerning situation, not just for regional communities in the fire’s path, but for millions more facing extreme heat, dangerous air quality and an escalating fire risk.
The fire burning near Carlisle River has pushed dangerously close to the town of Gellibrand, forcing evacuations and leaving residents unsure if their homes will still be standing when it is safe to return. Gusty winds and severe heat allowed the blaze to break containment lines, sending spot fires into farmland and bushland and keeping firefighters locked in active property protection through the night. While warnings have eased slightly as conditions moderated, authorities are clear that this fire is not yet under control and could surge again with the next weather shift.
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What makes this situation especially serious is what lies ahead. Victoria is heading into an intense heatwave, with parts of the state forecast to approach or even exceed temperatures not seen in decades. Northern and western regions are facing multiple consecutive days above 40 degrees Celsius and some towns could see temperatures pushing close to 50 degrees. Melbourne itself is forecast to reach extreme heat, with a late and delayed cool change offering little immediate relief.
This heat is not just uncomfortable, it is dangerous. Thick smoke from the Otways fire has already spread across southern Victoria, blanketing Melbourne, Geelong and surrounding regions. Air quality has dropped sharply, raising health risks for children, older people, pregnant women and anyone with heart or lung conditions. Authorities are urging people to limit outdoor activity, stay alert to symptoms like coughing or breathlessness and check on vulnerable neighbours.
Across the state, firefighters are now managing multiple major fires, with some expected to burn for weeks under these harsh conditions. Emergency officials are warning against complacency, especially in coastal and urban areas where cooler temperatures can create a false sense of security. The reality is that extreme heat, dry landscapes and unstable weather can turn any fire into a major threat with little warning.
This story matters because it highlights a growing pattern of longer, hotter and more intense fire seasons, placing enormous pressure on emergency services and communities alike. The coming days will be critical and the situation could change rapidly.
Stay with us for the latest verified updates, official warnings and on-the-ground developments as Victoria faces a defining test of this fire season.
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