Drought affected areas in parts of eastern and western Victoria are facing an increased bushfire risk leading into spring and summer, according to the Australian Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for Spring.
The Bureau has officially declared an active El Niño, with recent models indicating it is on track to become the strongest event in the modern era. El Niño generally brings hotter and drier weather conditions to Victoria.
Under the forecasted conditions, the significant risk of bushfires this spring and summer is a plausible scenario, with the potential for multiple large campaign fires starting as early as October across parts of the State. Despite most of the state receiving average to above average rainfall since April, overall water storages remain on par with last season
East Gippsland, the far south-west, the Surf Coast and the west of Geelong through to the southern Wombat Forest are facing increased fire potential this spring due to prolonged underlying dryness and dead vegetation, particularly in some forested areas of the state.
Significant grass growth is expected in northern and western Victoria, which is likely to dry out earlier than normal.
Victorians are encouraged to remain vigilant even in areas that show a normal risk of fire.
Stay informed by downloading the VicEmergency app or checking the VicEmergency website. Make sure you understand the three levels of warnings and what they mean.
It’s also time to start preparing your plan and your property. Updating your fire plan and reducing vegetation around your home including mowing long grass and clearing gutters are steps you can take now.
Victorians should also be mindful that spring can bring severe weather, including damaging winds, heavy rainfall, flash flooding and thunderstorms, which can develop quickly, so it’s important to be prepared for changing conditions.
Victoria’s emergency services will continue to monitor conditions leading into summer, ensuring the state is well prepared for all emergencies.
The Australian Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for Spring is developed by AFAC, the National Council for fire and emergency services in Australia and New Zealand, supported by the Bureau of Meteorology, along with state and territory fire and land managers. The Outlook gives a national picture of the likelihood of fires over the spring months.
Quotes attributable to Emergency Management Commissioner, Tim Wiebusch
“Forecast hot and dry conditions this spring means we may face a significant risk of bushfires this higher risk weather season and that it will begin earlier than usual.”
"Victorians should start preparing their homes and properties now. Have a bushfire plan in place, download the VicEmergency app and know your local emergency broadcaster."
“Our emergency services are well positioned for a possible early start to the bushfire danger period – undertaking briefings and multi-agency exercises to strengthen readiness for all types of emergencies including bushfires, floods and storms.”
Quotes attributable to Country Fire Authority Chief Officer, Jason Heffernan
"Forecast conditions indicate a warmer spring and a possible early start to the fire danger period across Victoria so now is the time for the community to be prepared.”
“Fire safety is a shared responsibility; we urge Victorians to ensure their households and properties are ready for the season ahead along with a fire plan in place.”
“CFA crews are trained, equipped and prepared to protect communities throughout the state and we will continue to work alongside our communities throughout the fire season."
Quotes attributable to Forest Fire Management Victoria Chief Fire Officer, Chris Hardman
“The seasonal outlook reinforces the importance of the year-round work we do to reduce bushfire risk across Victoria’s parks and forests.”
“With warmer and drier conditions forecast for spring, we will continue working with our emergency management partners to monitor conditions and undertake fuel management and preparedness works in the lead-up to summer.”
“Our focus is on being ready to detect, respond and contain bushfires as quickly as possible to minimise impacts and keep communities safe.
"Victorians can help by taking extra care with campfires and always know and follow the rules when visiting parks and state forests.”
Quotes attributable to Fire Rescue Victoria Commissioner, Gavin Freeman
“As this spring is bringing one of the warmest and driest outlooks Victoria has had for some time, now is the time to take action by preparing your home and property and ensuring your fire plan is up to date.
“The increased potential for fire risk under these weather conditions means that bushfires and grass fires can also take hold in regional and urban areas, with areas of bushland and parks nearby.
“That’s why it’s so important to keep in touch with what is happening in your area. Download the Emergency Vic App, set up a watch zone and ensure your fire plan is ready for spring.”
Quotes attributable to Victoria State Emergency Service, Chief Officer Operations, Alistair Drayton
“While the seasonal outlook highlights an increased bushfire risk in some parts of Victoria, we know spring and summer can bring a range of severe weather, including damaging winds, heavy rainfall, flash flooding and thunderstorms.”
“VICSES volunteers are preparing for the season ahead, but we also need communities to be prepared. Know the risks in your area, have a plan for what you will do if conditions become dangerous, and stay informed through VicEmergency.”
MEDIA CONTACT:
Emergency Management Victoria via the State Control Centre: 1300 287 289 or media@emv.vic.gov.au
