At Least 1 Home Destroyed as Fires Sweep Through Victoria
Tourists visiting the Great Ocean Road had to be evacuated due to bush and grass fires that broke out on Nov. 16 in Western Victoria. These fires have destroyed at least one home, and there are concerns that two additional homes, as well as livestock and crops, may have also been affected.
Currently, there are two fires burning out of control, prompting hundreds of firefighters to race against time to manage them. One fire is near Kadnook on the Victorian border with South Australia, while the other is threatening communities along the Great Ocean Road in Southwest Victoria.
Although roads on the Great Ocean Road have been reopened, authorities still advise against visiting the area. Additionally, hikers and campers were evacuated from Otway National Park due to the closure of walking trails near the fire for approximately six hours overnight.
Evacuation Recommended
The fire at Chapple Vale has already ravaged about 700 hectares of land. Residents in nearby areas, including Crowes, Johanna, Johanna Heights, Lavers Hill, Stalker, Wattle Hill, Gellibrand Lower, Wangerrip, and Yuulong, are advised to evacuate immediately. Vic Emergency warns that conditions may deteriorate rapidly and urges people not to delay their departure.
Aircraft equipped for water bombing were deployed to combat the spreading fire in challenging terrain. CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan reported that 1,000 hectares of a private bluegum plantation had already been destroyed by the fire. Despite cooler temperatures, concerns remain high due to potential lightning strikes and strong winds that could worsen fire conditions.
The Bureau of Meteorology issued a severe weather warning for heavy rainfall and damaging winds in parts of northeast Victoria and the southwest coast. Senior meteorologist Keris Arndt expressed concern over the presence of lightning in areas with fire risks and emphasized the impact of elevated westerly winds on firefighting efforts.
Prior to 10 a.m. on Nov. 17, the State Emergency Service received over 200 assistance requests, with 70 of them related to falling trees and powerlines in Shepparton, Central Victoria. It is crucial for people to heed evacuation warnings and prioritize safety in these challenging circumstances.
AAP contributed to this report.
