Authorities have issued urgent warnings as uncontrolled bushfires continue to rage across southeastern Australia, with parts of Victoria facing the highest-ever fire danger rating. Officials have described Friday as a “catastrophic” fire day, signaling that any fires that ignite are likely to be uncontrollable and life-threatening.
Communities near Longwood and Walwa have already been devastated, with thousands of hectares burned and structures destroyed. Tens of thousands of residents have been affected, and emergency “leave now” evacuation orders have been issued for several towns.
The extreme fire conditions are being driven by an ongoing heatwave, with temperatures soaring above 40 °C, coupled with strong winds and low humidity. Firefighters are stretched across multiple fronts, working alongside aircraft and emergency services to contain the blazes.
Authorities have stressed that under catastrophic conditions, survival is uncertain if residents are caught in a fire, and they are urging strict adherence to official evacuation orders. Major roads, schools, and public lands have been closed to minimize risk.
“This is as severe as it gets,” warned Victoria’s emergency services. “If you are in a high-risk area, do not wait leave immediately.”
Residents are advised to monitor local alerts and prepare for rapidly changing conditions as the heatwave and high winds continue to fuel the fires. Visit www.jocomms.com for more news.