BREAKING: Multiple grass fires have erupted across Victoria, with one fire declared out of control as temperatures soar. Emergency services are responding urgently to the crisis, with significant resources deployed to contain the blazes.
On December 9, 22 CFA fire units rushed to a grass fire near Rutherglen. The fire, located along McPhersons Road in Lilliput, required aerial support to combat the flames, which have already scorched approximately 40 hectares of land. A CFA spokesperson stated that crews encountered an alarming 800 metres of running fire in a nearby paddock.
Authorities have initiated asset protection measures for nearby structures while issuing alerts to the community. The fire was confirmed under control at 3:37 PM and deemed safe by 6:18 PM. Initial reports suggest the fire was sparked by a mechanical header working in the paddock.
In a separate incident further north, another grass fire ignited between Walbundrie and Henty at Alma Park on the same day, burning through 246 hectares of grassland. The Rural Fire Service, assisted by Fire and Rescue NSW, worked diligently to bring the blaze under control, which was achieved by 9:30 AM on December 10.
Earlier in the week, on December 6, CFA crews battled an out-of-control fire at Browns Plains. What began as a small smoke plume rapidly intensified into a significant blaze, resulting in a dark column of smoke visible across the region. Over 30 firefighting units from both Victoria and New South Wales were deployed, with teams remaining on-site to monitor the situation and address burning hay stacks.
The devastation continues to escalate as firefighters patrol the aftermath of a fire in Markwood, which has tragically destroyed two homes and damaged a third. This fire, which broke out on December 4, remains under investigation as the cause has not yet been determined.
Authorities are urging residents in affected areas to remain vigilant and heed any warnings from emergency services. As these fires continue to pose a threat to both life and property, the community is reminded of the importance of fire safety during these intense conditions.
Stay tuned for further updates as this situation develops, and share this urgent news to keep others informed.