February 27th, 2024Fire warning issued

People living in parts of Victoria’s north-west and south-west are being warned to prepare for catastrophic fire conditions tomorrow, with temperatures forecast to reach the mid 40s in some areas.

A bushfire that started at Bayindeen, north-west of Ballarat, last week has not yet been brought under control. Authorities have issued warnings for residents of surrounding towns to leave their homes tonight or by midday on Wednesday, and prepare to take their pets and essentials for three days.

The bushfire could threaten the towns of Amphitheatre, Beaufort, Clunes, Elmhurst, Learmonth and Lexton.

The State Control Centre has released an impact map of the potential impact zone.

Premier Jacinta Allan said tomorrow would be “incredibly difficult” with predicted wind gusts of up to 80 kilometres per hour and dry lightning.

“Tomorrow is likely to be one of the most dangerous fire days Victoria has experienced in recent years,” she said.

“People who live in these high-fire-risk areas need to think about having their plan in place, activating their fire plan and particularly if the emergency services tell you to leave or give you a particular message, please follow that message and heed those warnings.”

About 600 firefighters have been working to suppress the fire in Bayindeen, which has burnt more than 20,000 hectares and destroyed at least six homes since it started on Thursday.