Community Safety Message – Fire danger in west and south west Victoria on Thursday
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Thursday 23 April will see a spike in fire danger weather in west and south-west Victoria, ahead of wet and cold conditions over the weekend.
The DSE and CFA are warning that strong northerly winds are expected across west and central areas of the state. The stable weather Victoria has been experiencing over the last week is being replaced with strong winds on Thursday across the west of the state.
The slow moving high which has been passing across the state has resulted in calm and stable weather. On Thursday morning however, strong northerly winds and a dry airmass are expected to increase grass and forest fire dangers in western and central areas.
It is important that people do not become complacent about fire danger. Victoria can still expect isolated occasions when the fire danger is high. Although the worst of the fires season is over, the state remains very dry and fire risk is still present.
Exercise care with fires
People who have been taking advantage of recent stable weather to conduct burns around their property need to make sure that their burns are secure for Thursday.
People also need to be especially careful around campfires. DSE attends about 100 cases of unattended campfires in parks and forests each year. It is essential that campers are responsible and vigilant when lighting a campfire and comply with safety regulations.
Stay vigilant
Communities need to stay vigilant and have a well-practised fire plan. People need to remain alert as there may not be warning should conditions change unexpectedly. Continue to listen to ABC or local radio for updates. If your decision is to leave, leave early before fire threatens your area.
- listen to your local ABC radio for fire updates
- check DSE and CFA websites
- call the Victoria Bushfire Information Line on freecall 1800 240 667. Callers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech / communication impairment may call textphone/ telewriter (TTY) on 1800 122 969.
Other links
fireready.vic.gov.au
Bushfire safety and health
Be BushfireSmart when travelling
