Hot and dry conditions in the Mallee and Wimmera have triggered a Total Fire Ban (TFB) as Extreme Fire Danger Ratings have been forecast in both districts today, Saturday 23 November 2024.
A Severe Heatwave Warning for East Gippsland is also in place until Sunday, as a locally severe heatwave is expected to impact the region, while a low intensity heatwave continues across the rest of the state.
Temperatures are expected to reach 33-38°C in much of the state and 28-32°C on the coast.
Light to moderate northerly winds of up to 40km/h are expected in the Wimmera and Mallee before a south-westerly wind change will bring cooler conditions by the early evening.
On an Extreme Fire Danger day, fires will spread quickly and can be extremely dangerous. Take action now to protect life and property.
In TFB areas, no fire can be lit in the open air or allowed to remain alight from 12:01am to 11:59pm today. While many parts of the state are not under a Total Fire Ban, on dry, windy days, you should not light a campfire, undertake burn-offs or activities that may generate sparks or embers.
With harvest activity progressing, particularly in the Mallee, farmers are advised reminded that machinery can start grassfires. Check that any equipment used is free from faults and is fitted with a water fire extinguisher of at least 9 litres to prevent accidental ignition in the drier conditions.
Quotes attributable to State Response Controller, David Nugent
"People who have undertaken burn-offs in recent days as part of preparing for the bushfire season need to make sure these have been fully extinguished.
“Today’s hot and dry conditions make it very difficult for firefighters to supress a fire once started.
“You should have your fire plan ready to go and put it into action if appropriate.
“Fire safety is a shared responsibility. We are urging Victorians to monitor conditions, know your local emergency broadcasters and always use more than one source of emergency information.”
Victorians are reminded to never rely on one channel for emergency information. Connect to official sources of emergency information, including:
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The VicEmergency app
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The VicEmergency website www.emergency.vic.gov.au
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Emergency broadcasters; ABC local radio, commercial and community radio stations, SkyNews
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The VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226
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CFA or VicEmergency on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter)
