UPDATE: A severe heatwave is engulfing southeastern Australia, creating catastrophic fire conditions as temperatures soar to dangerously high levels. Friday, January 12, 2024 is expected to bring temperatures of up to 47°C in inland Victoria and 41°C in Melbourne, prompting urgent preparations from firefighters.
Emergency warnings have been issued for bushfires in northwest Victoria and Longwood, with officials elevating fire warnings to catastrophic levels across the Wimmera and northern regions. A total fire ban is now in effect statewide, highlighting the seriousness of the situation.
Little Yarra Country Fire Authority Captain Peter Cookson, actively battling a blaze in Longwood, expressed concern about the day’s conditions. “It’s all going to be a very bad day,” he told AAP. “We all prepare for these days, and if nothing happens, that is a win. But you can’t say nothing will happen—these things can all start from a spark.”
Currently, fire crews are engaged in combatting two significant out-of-control blazes. The fire at Longwood has already consumed over 28,000 hectares, while another blaze near Walwa and Mount Lawson has scorched more than 9,000 hectares. With wind gusts reaching up to 90 km/h and a high risk of severe thunderstorms, the Bureau of Meteorology warns of unpredictable fire behavior, jeopardizing lives and property.
David Nugent, spokesperson for the State Control Centre, emphasized the potential dangers, stating, “Under those catastrophic conditions, there is real potential for lives and homes to be lost.” Authorities are also concerned that strong winds could ground aerial firefighting efforts. “Jason Heffernan, chief of the CFA, remarked, “It’s every chance at some point the aircraft may not be able to fly. If a fire takes hold, they’re going to be uncontrollable.”
In a precautionary measure, Ambulance Victoria announced that paramedics and first responders in high-risk areas will be withdrawn and will only respond to serious or life-threatening emergencies.
The heatwave is also impacting the ACT and New South Wales, where a total fire ban has been implemented across several regions, including the eastern Riverina and southern slopes. While temperatures in Sydney are forecasted to reach a maximum of 33°C, conditions are set to worsen over the weekend, with expected highs of 42°C in the city on Saturday.
Steve Vaughan, chief superintendent of NSW Ambulance, urged residents to prepare for the extreme heat. “Heatwaves put real pressure on your body, with consecutive days of relentless heat causing stress that builds up over time,” he stated.
As the situation develops, it is crucial for residents in affected areas to stay informed and take necessary precautions. The lives and homes of many are at stake as authorities brace for what could be one of the worst bushfire days in recent history. Stay tuned for updates as this urgent situation unfolds.
