An emergency warning has been downgraded as bushfire continues to burn out-of-control at the Grampians National Park, prompting urgent preparations for the residents of surrounding areas. The bushfire has rapidly expanded, now scorching over 5,400 hectares of land, affecting locations like Mirranatwa, Jimmy Creek, and Victoria Valley.
VicEmergency issued stern warnings for locals to prepare for evacuation as the firefighting efforts continue. Community members were advised, "Prepare to leave immediately. Leave as soon as you are ready, as roads will become busy as people leave," underscoring the urgency of the situation.
The massive fire started from multiple lightning strikes and has swiftly spread, with officials noting the current level of dryness of the forest vegetation, having diminished due to low rainfall, creating favorable conditions for the fire’s rapid progression. Peter Brick, incident controller, elaborated on the alarming growth of the blaze, stating, "It’s grown nearly ten times in size, which is significant,” indicating how quickly this fire has gotten out of hand.
With conditions expected to worsen, additional firefighting teams have been deployed to combat the blaze. Approximately 200 firefighters, assisted by aerial resources, are engaged on the ground, battling difficult terrain and the intense heat. David Harris, from the Country Fire Authority, reported, "During the evening we had a really strong south-easterly wind push the fire from the Serra Range out to the Victoria Valley," emphasizing the challenges faced by responders.
The situation remains precarious, with heavy smoke filling the skies and visible from as far as space, bearing witness to the extent of the fire's impact. Adrian Field, a resident nearby, observed, "At the moment it’s pretty calm because there’s no wind, but there is a lot of smoke around. But it’s going to get warm later.” Residents have reported being about one kilometer from the fire's front, raising concerns about changing wind directions.
A relief center has been set up at 14 Sterling Place, Dunkeld, providing much-needed assistance for evacuees. Roads leading out of the danger zones have also been impacted, with significant closures, including Grampians Road, Victoria Valley Road, and Yarram Gap Road, adding additional challenges for residents seeking safety.
Authorities reiterated the importance of leaving affected areas immediately, especially as extreme heat poses threats, with warnings like, "Extreme heat is likely to kill you well before the flames reach you," from Victoria Emergency. Those who cannot evacuate are urged to take shelter indoors, close all doors and windows, and avoid going outside until it is safe.
The bushfire season appears to be taking hold earlier than usual, with weather predictions indicating hot and windy conditions in the days to come—a scenario raising the stakes for residents and emergency services alike. This region has faced its share of devastation from fires, with residents still recalling the catastrophic incidents from previous years.
Locals are advised to stay tuned to updates via the VicEmergency app, monitor the situation closely, and formulate exit plans, as circumstances can change rapidly. For those on the ground, every precaution is being taken—from ensuring local farms are safeguarded to tending to livestock, with reports of sheep being lost to the fire.
The gravity of the situation has sparked community efforts, with locals rallying around those affected, underscoring the spirit of partnership and resilience found within the community during these trying times. The focus remains on safety, vigilance, and support, as authorities work tirelessly to manage and contain the fire’s spread.
For those choosing to remain or unable to evacuate, strategies for creating protective spaces have been recommended. Sheltering indoors, securing windows, and relying on physical barriers can help protect against the intense heat and dangerous conditions generated by the blaze.
With the situation still developing, residents are reminded to act quickly, remain alert, and seek safety as bushfire emergencies continue to pose threats to their homes and livelihoods. The importance of community support, effective communication, and prompt action cannot be overstated during such challenging times, ensuring everyone remains as safe as possible amid nature’s unpredictability.
